W W W . S O U T H E R N G O L F C E N T R A L . C O M
More Beautiful Courses to Master
View golf packages, schedule tee times! Diverse Terrain Stay & Play Packages Affordable Play
Creek 1 The at Hard Labor Walk 2 Highland at Victoria Bryant As the storied home to the Masters Tournament, Georgia’s Augusta National Golf Club is one of the world’s most famous golf courses. But don’t forget Georgia’s impressive lineup of State Park golf courses that offer overnight stays and top-notch golf on top-rated greens and fairways. And you don’t have to be a pro to play them. Tee up at gastateparks.org/golfing GaStateParks.org | 800-434-0982
Pointe 3 Arrowhead at Richard B. Russell
Gainesville
1
Atlanta
Links 4 Meadow at George T. Bagby
Lakes 7 The at Laura S. Walker Creek 8 Brazell’s at Gordonia-Alatamaha
3
Athens Augusta
Macon
Vets 5 Georgia Memorial Golf Course Ocmulgee 6 Little Wallace Adams Course
2
Columbus
4
5
6
8
Savannah
Albany
7
Valdosta
ATLANTIC OCEAN
from the publishers header
Volume 16, Issue 4
Keep keepin’ it Real I’m only saying that because I’m trying to be as cool as Dwayne “the Rock” Johnson, the star of the HBO hit Ballers. They made a reference to David Feherty (my crush is over, btw) on the latest episode and I thought that it was too epic not to share. I also wanted to let everyone know that I am single handedly bringing the word “groovy” back just to prove how cool I really am. I’m going to throw down some crazy info on y’all so if you’re not cool enough to read this, you may want to flip the page because it’s ‘bout to get real! We are talking about the millennials. Some people think that they are lazy little bums who are narcissistic and entitled. Others, including myself, see them as open-minded, liberal, upbeat and overtly passionate about equality. The National Golf Foundation explains that millennials are also engaged more in the game of golf than we think; they just crave more than the traditional game. Golf Central is all about making the game of golf more exciting and adventurous. Since I am 25+30 years of age, I may not be considered a millennial, but I can definitely relate to them. But seriously, millennials are crucial to the growing society. I support young people entering the golf world and working alongside people like me. The ideas and the level of creativity they bring is unbeatable. Millennials want transparency and to feel that their opinions are being heard. Millennials are connected, tech-savvy and multi-taskers. Golf Central is keeping up with the times by hiring a few millennials of our own. Last issue I introduced my fabulous CCD, Jasmin Smith, and now I would like to introduce my PRP, Felicia Botting. Take it away Felicia! Hey everyone! My name is Felicia Botting and I am the Public Relation Princess (PRP for short) for Southern Golf Central Magazine and TURF LIFE! I am a Junior at The University Of Central Florida studying Advertising and Public Relations with a minor in Marketing! #CHARGEON! I am so excited to be a part of the amazing team we have here at Golf Central. Learning, educating and spreading the TURF LIFE pride are some of the main things we do and it is just the beginning! Although my Golf skills haven’t exceeded Mini Golf, I am determined to play the game and expand my skills on the turf! “Turf Life is not just a game, it is a way of life” Keep an eye out for us as we plan to take the Turf community by storm! Every new generation thinks they cracked the code on “Cool”, but I believe we’re all groovy, dope, and epic! Coming up, we will be at the SMHF Charity Golf Tournament in Atlanta, the Myrtle Beach World Amateur, and the Necker Open! We’ll see y’all there! 2009 North Florida PGA Amateur of the Year 4
Publisher: Terrie L. Purdum Editor in Chief: Shannon Coates Regional Partner: Doug Hollandsworth, Founder-Georgia Golf Trail Editor Emeritus: Joel Jackson, CGCS Retired Coordinating Communications Diva: Jasmin Smith
Public Relations Princess: Felecia Botting Golf Media Girl: Janel Losada Photographers: Lynn Pelham, Brion Price, Peter Hakansson Tres Fenton, Mike Coonan, Jess Regan
Senior Correspondent: Rick Harris, Sr. Contributing Writers: Jay Golden, PGA; Greg Wise, Bob Bolton, Elisa Gaudet, Mike Jamison, Mike May, Chris Thompson, Katie Hatfield, Ron Heller, Chuck Cavalaris, Fred Seely, Deb Shuck, JL Quebbeman, Mitch Sadowsky, Lisa "Mickie" Clark Graphic Design: Melahn Cable, melahn@mac.com Website Design/Network Support: ryjo.com
Southern Golf Central Magazine is published monthly by: Sand Hill Publishing & Public Relations 1549 Warrington Court, Winter Springs, FL 32708
NEW PHONE: 321.765.4215 E-mail: info@floridagolfcentral.com ©2015 Southern Golf Central Magazine. No portion of this publication may be reprinted without the prior written permission of the Publisher. Editorial contributions are welcome, but Florida Golf Central Magazine assumes no responsibility for unsolicited proposals, manuscripts and photographs. All materials submitted not accompanied by a selfaddressed stamped envelope will not be returned. Mailing, electronic mailing or faxing of contributions constitutes an expressed warrant on the part of the contributor that all material is original and does not infringe on the rights of others. Florida Golf Central Magazine retains all reprint rights and reserves the right to edit any submitted material to meet our specifications for publishing and or use in advertising or promotion. The Publisher and staff are not responsible for any loss or grievance by any person or persons whatsoever, due in any way or in part to the content of this publication. The Publisher reserves the right to refuse to accept any material deemed inappropriate or in bad taste.
Southern Golf Central • Volume 16, Issue 4
Volume 16, Issue 4 62 Departments
Alabama Golf Central 64 Lakewood Golf Club & The Grand
8 Golf Central Station 10 Florida Restaurant Association 28 Freddy's Fairway Thoughts 30 Competitive Spirits 40 Turf Life
Caribbean Golf Central 60 Amanera- Dominican Republic Carolinas Golf Central 68 Hilton Head Island Cart Girl 14 Karisa Akin Fashion Forward 32 Lizzie Driver FEATURE 38 On Top of the World
42 44 46 48 50 52 54 56 70 72
Turf Life Grip It & Sip It Product Showcase Grip It & Sip It Duffer Dan NFPGA SFPGA PGA of America Golf Fitness Golf Fitness
10
Fore Your Health 18 Deuk Spine Institute Georgia Golf Central 62 Sea Island Golf Bachelor 12 Alex
20
Golf History 48 Tarpon Springs Golf Course 58 Riviera Country Club Gof Travel 34 St Kitts In Memory Of 22 The Lily Living on the Links 36 The Greenbrier Sporting Club Player Development 20 Izzy Pellot Special Events 24 AAU National Championship 26 Ironman Tournament Tennessee Golf Central 66 Grant Hill What's New 16 ING Members
58
southerngolfcentral.com
Divot Repair Will Never Be The Same Pitchfix Twister
An average golfer makes 12 ball marks per round on golf greens. This means on average that a golf course get’s some 700000 ball marks per year. Take into account the players that do not repair ball marks and others that use their conventional repair tool in the wrong way and the damage done is hughe and takes weeks to recover.
Best Gift Packaging for corporate outings
With Pitchfix Twister ball mark repair can only be done the right way and it’s fun to do!
www.pitchfixusa.com
Rounds 4 Research June auction raises $112,500 for turfgrass studies
the auction for me is knowing that the funds will go toward a better golf experience for all of us,” said Dr. Robert Stout, who
Lawrence, Kan. - The 2015 Rounds 4
submitted the winning bid for Bandon Dunes.
Research fundraising program to support
“We are pleased with the success of
turfgrass studies, managed by the
our Rounds 4 Research program and the
Environmental Institute For Golf (EIFG), sold more than 670 rounds and yielded more
level. The top bid was $3,435 for a two-
good that we know it can do for turfgrass
than $112,500 in its June online auction.
night stay and eight rounds of golf offered
research,” said Rhett Evans, GCSAA chief
The EIFG is the philanthropic organization
by Bandon Dunes Resort in Bandon, Ore.;
executive officer. “This is a terrific program
of the Golf Course Superintendents
while the high bid for a tee time for four
that gives golfers everywhere a chance
Association of America (GCSAA).
golfers was $1,720 for the chance to play at
to play their favorite courses and benefit
The Carolinas Golf Course Superinten-
Somerset Hills Country Club in Bernards-
the long-term health of the game.”
dents Association, with more than $22,000
ville, N.J., a famed A.W. Tillinghast course
The national campaign is supported
raised, was the leader among more than 50
and host of the 1990 Curtis Cup Match.
by a $50,000 donation from The Toro
fundraising partners that donated rounds
“Playing at Bandon Dunes was on my
Co. The program has raised more than
to support turfgrass research at the local
bucket list, but the most gratifying result of
$400,000 since launching in 2012.
“Driver vs. Driver” to Premiere on Golf Channel, Fall 2016 Chicago, IL- Do you have the next big idea for the world of golf? Or, perhaps you have a concept for the next big innovation in golf drivers? Does working alongside the award-winning Wilson Labs innovation team to watch your idea come to life sound like a dream come true? If so, Wilson Golf wants to hear from you. Wilson Golf announced today a call for entries as it launches a new television 8
show called “Driver vs. Driver.” This show,
ne who has an idea or concept they believe
scheduled to air on Golf Channel in Fall
could be the next big driver concept, Wilson
2016, is being created to open the door for
Golf invites you to participate. To enter,
exciting, unique and fundamentally new,
individuals and/or teams need to submit a
innovative concepts in golf driver equipment.
short video on their concept, why they think
What’s at stake? A $500,000 grand prize and
it can work as the next driver innovation,
an once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to work
and a brief synopsis of who they are. Entries
with Wilson Golf’s Wilson Labs innovation
can be submitted at www.wilson.com/
team of engineers and designers as your
drivervsdriver. The deadline for entries is
idea becomes a Wilson Staff 2017 branded
11:59 PM CT, August 15, 2015. A compre-
driver sold at golf shops around the country.
hensive overview of show eligibility and
For golfers, inventors, engineers, or anyo-
requirements can also be found on the site. Florida Golf Central • Volume 16 Issue 4
By Elizabeth Ray
header CMAA
Hospitality Industry Leaders Headlined FRLA’s Marketing + Operations Summit
The Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (FRLA) proudly presented its annual Marketing + Operations Summit, July 29- 30 at the Tampa Marriott Waterside Hotel & Marina. The two-day event was designed to spotlight hospitality industry leaders who have instituted best-practices in their own companies and to introduce new business trends that increase sales and customer satisfaction. Featured world-class presenters from Coca-Cola, Firehouse Subs, MillerCoors, Bloomin’ Brands, VISIT FLORIDA, the American Hotel and Lodging Association Educational Foundation, The Ritz-Carlton, and Tijuana Flats shared marketing and operation tips and trends on how to manage restaurants and hotels more effectively. “This event was an opportunity to gain invaluable knowledge from some of the best in the business and this year, our line-up of speakers was truly stellar. We believe our Marketing + Operations Summit will help our colleagues in the hospitality and tourism industry boost their bottom lines and enhance their businesses. Here in the Sunshine State, we are incredibly proud of the exceptional guest experiences created every day 10
and are excited to continue to cultivate our world-class service,” said Carol Dover, President and CEO of the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association. Event highlights included: Florida Homegrown: Emerging Concepts: Some of the newest brands
cocktails that can serve as the foundation for thousands of variations. Future of Beer Panel: The experts on craft/traditional beer trends shared where the next evolution of beer is coming from and how brewers will respond. Path to Power: Accomplished female leaders shared their paths to success and gave practical advice on how to build a sustaining career. In addition to the ladies from Bloomin’ Brands, First Watch, Coca-Cola and Loews Hotels, FRLA’s own President and CEO Carol Dover spoke about her experience in the industry. Plus, keynote speakers included: Ty Bennett, Founder of Leadership Inc. and Jim Knight, Founder/Owner of Knight Speaker. For more information about this event and others hosted by the FRLA, please visit www.FRLA.org.
hatched in Florida shared how they’re reshaping our state’s dining landscape. Featured concepts included: TR Fire Grill, Square 1 Burgers and Bar, The Brass Tap, and Hurricane Grill and Wings. The 12 Cocktails Everyone Needs to Know: Southern Wine & Spirits Director of Mixology highlighted 12 Southern Golf Central • Volume 16, Issue 4
“Golf at Stewart Lodges at Steelwood”
Play ~ The Stewart Lodges ~ All Inclusive, Customized Golf and Lodging DESTINATION including: A combination of charm, exclusivity, and
The Vistas are Spectacular, especially the 6 holes
impeccable service — all nestled within a gorgeous
bordering the lake.
1200-acre wooded area.
The Steelwood golf course opened in 1997.
The course, designed by former U.S. Open Champion Jerry Pate, is rated by GolfDigest® as one of “The Best Courses in Alabama”.
With no two fairways alike and with four sets of tees on each hole, the course offers versatility appealing to players of all levels.
Call TODAY ~ Mention this ad and ask about our “Value Added Package” Loxley, Alabama ~ Only minutes from Mobile Bay
(251) 602-1300 ~
Toll Free
(866) 580-4343 ~ www.StewartSteelwood.com
golf bachelor header
Where were you born? Did you grow up there? Born and raised in Manchester, GA
What do you do for a living?
Business Owner of Music Entertainment & Publishing Co. (Three OAK Doors Enterprises, LLC); and Professor/ Professional Lecturer & Curriculum Coach at University of South Florida St. Petersburg, Fla.
Aside from golf; what do you prefer for fun and relaxation? ‘World Adventures’ (Cruises / International Excursions); Baseball; Hiking; Amusement Parks and Tropical & Mountain Resorts; and Concerts
Whom do you most admire for their inner and outer beauty? My Mother Steak, chicken, or seafood? Seafood, preferably Salmon, Grouper and Chilean Seabass
What three things would you need to survive on a deserted island? 1. A pocket knife 2. Fishing String 3. Blanket
Alex
Who would you like to have with you on the same deserted island; and why? I would like to have someone who is optimistic about survival, preferably the lady I love and/or a family member or good friend.
What do you find to be the most annoying habit people demonstrate on the golf course? Not watching where someone else’s ball lands.
Name the three most important things to you in this world. 1. My commitment to God 2. My commitment to Family & Friends 3. My commitment to career
Given the choice; would you select love, success, or money to keep yourself happy? Love What do you fear the most? I don’t practice fearing at the moment.
What three people would you most like to play with in your fantasy golf foursome? 1. Tiger Woods 2. Jimmy Buffet 3. Steve Harvey
What are some of your great accomplishments?
1. Having 3 singles placed on the Radio National Charts 2. Completing 3-higher educational degrees 3. Traveling and performing in more than 30-states of the USA before 30years
Relaxed evening at home, or nightclub and cocktails?
A Relaxed evening is at home or in the park reflecting at sunset
Favorite comedian? Kevin Hart Last book you read? Book I last read: Execution by Larry Bossidy & Ram Charan. Book I am Reading: The Circle Maker by Mark Batterson 12
Southern Golf Central • Volume 16, Issue 4
A DI S P L A Y O F T H E W O R L D ’S M O S T E XO T I C C AR S , MOTOR C Y C L E S . AI R C R AFT & W AT E R C R AFT
LU X U R Y LI FES TYL E JETP OR T R EC EP TI ON
O R L A ND O INT E R NA T I O N A L A I RP O R T | 12 / 4/ 15 | 8 :0 0 P M - 11:0 0 P M
GO LF C L AS S I C TOUR NAM ENT
SU P P O R T ING T H E A RN OL D P A L M E R HOS P I TA L FO R C HI L D R E N P R E S E N TE D B Y B E L L A C OL L I N A B E L L A C O L L INA , M O N TE V E R D E | 12 / 5/ 15 | 9 :0 0 A M - 3 :0 0 P M
M OTOR S P OR TS D I S P L AY
P R E S E N TE D B Y FI E L D S A UTO GR OUP T H E R IT Z - C A R L T O N O R L A N D O , GR A N D E L A K E S | 12 / 6 / 15 | 10 :0 0 A M - 4:0 0 P M
WWW. FE S TI V AL SOF SPEED. C OM | 352 -38 5-9450 CO N TACT U S TO DAY F OR SPON SOR SHI P OPPOR TU N I TI ES
cart header girl Where did you grow up? Nashville, TN What is your favorite sport to play? Favorite to watch? Golf and Golf
Do you enjoy playing golf? Are they’re any golfers in your family? I do enjoy playing golf! Its fun and I can usually beat
the guys I’m playing with! Both my parents are golfers so it’s something I enjoying sharing with them.
What do you feel makes this club special? The atmosphere
and the people. Everyone is at the course to have fun and coming from a competitive golf background I can relate to the experienced golfers and give a few pointers to the beginners!
If you weren’t a cart girl, what would you be doing? I would
be working in the golf industry! It is too close to my heart and I love it too much to do anything else.
What is your memorable moment working as a cart girl? There are too many to choose from but they all involve winning driving or chipping contest when I decide to challenge some of the men when I’m working on the cart. The looks on their faces when I beat them are pretty priceless!
Karisa Akin
What type of music do you prefer? I do come from the music capital of the world, so anything COUNTRY!
What hobbies do you enjoy? Anything that involves water and a boat
What is your idea of “the perfect date”? If it involves good
food, good wine, and good company that's pretty perfect to me!
Relaxed evening at home, or nightclub and cocktails? I’m
pretty crazy and outgoing most of the time so I need relaxing time at home to unwind.
Favorite comedian? I would be lying if I didn’t say myself or at least I like to think I’m pretty funny most of the time.
Favorite type of movie? Action packed...I am definitely not a chick flick kind of girl.
Favorite charity to support? The Addison Jo Blair Foundation helps children suffering from cancer at Kosair Children’s Hospital in Louisville, Ky. 14
Southern Golf Central • Volume 16, Issue 4
IF YOU LOVE GOLF LIKE I DO Thank a Golf Course Superintendent
Thank a Golf Course Superintendent at www.gcsaa.org/thankasuperintendent and be entered to win a trip to the 2015 PGA Championship!
MYSTORY
Golf Course Superintendents Association of America
By Richard Lord
what's new
TRUE Linkswear Sam Snead grew up playing golf barefoot and even shed his shoes for a couple of holes during a practice round for the Masters, where he claimed in a June 1959 Life Magazine story that he went birdiebirdie. Said Snead: “Those thick-soled shoes keep you too far off the ground.” Perhaps then, given Snead’s sentiments, it’s no surprise that a successful PGA Tour player, Ryan Moore, co-founded TRUE Linkswear in 2009. “Every shoe has a raised heel that puts you on your toes, and Ryan couldn’t use them, so he went minimalist,” explains Jeff Wood, TRUE’s vice president of marketing, at the recent ING Spring Conference at Mission Inn. “He started wearing non-golf shoes looking for the solution to give him a more neutral starting position.” Having not found the perfect solution, he eventually co-founded TRUE and through extensive research and testing, with his younger brother Jason as the vice president of product development, the company has come up what TRUE calls “a minimally built shoe that mimics the natural movement and shape of the human foot.” Some of the key features include thin soles, a wide toe box, lightweight leather and flexibility. Unlike most golf shoes, according to Wood, there is no steel rod under your foot. “There’s nothing but rubber, which makes them fully flexible,” he said. “That is a big selling point.” The company has a 30-day money back guarantee if you play on a course and don’t like them, and a two-year waterproof warranty. Moore, Chris Kirk, Harris English and Ben Crane are PGA Tour players who are wearing TRUE Linkswear. And the world’s No. 1-ranked women’s player, Inbee Park, is also a member of the TRUE Linkswear team.
from 100 yards and in,” said Golf Ball Category Manager Lindsay Main. The Project (a) ball is engineered to reduce spin off the tee and with long irons to promote distance yet produce high short-game spin so amateurs can stop the ball more quickly on the green.
Chase54 Apparel The 54 in Chase54 isn’t just some number picked randomly by the golf apparel company. For golfers, 54 is known as that unattainable “perfect” round of golf, as in 18 birdies on a par-72 course. “As golfers and people, we believe that perfection might always be just beyond our reach, but that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t aim to achieve it,” Chase54 says on the company’s website. And to seek perfection, the company focuses on fabric. “Our scientists start in the most raw form, thinking through technologies that really matter on the golf course and even the largest labels in the world do not offer,” the company website explains. “We think about fabric before it is fabric.” The first thing you notice about the fabric in Chase54 apparel is that it is soft, indicating a cool and
WHAT'S N TaylorMade Golf Asked whether golf’s economic downturn in recent years has slowed TaylorMade Golf’s efforts to bring 16
new products to the game, Vice President of Iron Innovation Bill Price offered an answer that included advice for others in the golf industry at the recent ING Spring Conference at Mission Inn Resort. “Innovation doesn’t stop and golf’s struggles are actually a motivating factor for us,” Price said. “Everyone involved in growing the game needs to stop being negative and start speaking positively. “We are trying to grow the game through innovation while attempting to keep the prices in line. We want to create products that makes some one jump off of their couch and start playing.” TaylorMade’s latest offering is the RSi line of irons, the first to feature Face Slot Technology, which according to the company’s website, “provides a uniform flexion across the face, protecting ball speed and generating more consistent distance on off-center hits.” “Our research discovered that amateurs miss the center of the club face with 76 percent of their iron shots, so we wanted to widen the sweet spot,” Price said. TaylorMade is also making strides in the golf ball market. While its high-end ball is the Tour Preferred, its Project (a) ball has been engineered for those of us who don’t exactly swing it like TaylorMade pros Dustin Johnson, Justin Rose or Sergio Garcia. “Amateurs spin the ball into the green at half the rate of tour pros, so they need a ball that spins the ball a lot more
comfortable fit on the course. Says Chief Designer Lulu Faddis, “The quality of the fabrics that many companies use is poor. They charge an arm-and-a-leg for a shirt that should cost $20. Our shirts are still $35 and $40 (in line with other companies), but we are using top-notch fabric. We manufacture our own product. There is no middle man so we are able to offer the best quality for the price.” Chase54 proudly points to the “Fusion54 Technology” it has developed to create a variety of Southern Golf Central • Volume 16, Issue 4
clothing that provides golfers ultimate comfort. It includes: • DryFUZE, which keeps golfers cool and dry thanks to the fabric transporting moisture from the skin to the clothing’s exterior. • ClimaFUZE, which is designed to keep golfers warm in all the elements. • UltraFUZE, outerwear with a high-performance membrane and ultra-high gauge knit to protect golfers from wind and water while providing four-way stretch. • GreenFUZE, which fuses environmental materials into its fabrics while providing natural protection and performance. • FeatherFUZE, a featherweight fabric that helps golfers stay cool, dry, fresh and odor-free. • FreSHIELD, which combats bacteria and odor. On the pro tours, look for Jerry Kelly and Brooke Pancake to be dressed smartly in Chase54 apparel.
NEW Golf Skate Caddy
It’s no secret that golf is trying to attract more young people to the game. Add Golf Skate Caddy to the list of innovations that just might help do that. A standing electric golf cart for one, it adds fun and adventure to a round and has a
Voted
GSA-Florida Central-Generic.indd 1 Southern GolfGolf Central • Volume 16, Issue 4
major “cool” factor that has already proven attractive to young golfers and others who might want to give the game a try. The new-age cart offers numerous advantages over the traditional twoperson cart including producing a faster pace of play, keeping the player loose
while giving them a light workout and causing much less damage to the course. “It allows golfers to play the game the way it was meant to be played,” said Golf Skate Caddy’s Tony Duran. “You can go right to your ball and focus on your game instead of having to ride to your partner’s ball. Sharing a cart can be distracting.” And, yes, you do get a workout instead of tightening up while sitting in a cart. “It’s not as strenuous as carrying a bag, but you do get a light workout,” Duran said. “Your leg and back muscles move, so that helps keep you loose during your round.” The Golf Skate Caddy, which was introduced at the 2014 PGA Merchandise Show and refined over the last year, is engineered to deal with difficult terrain and has numerous safety features. The cart has independent front and rear motors and four speed settings — 3, 6, 9 and 12 miles per hour, though 9 and 12 are recommended only for advanced cart users. And, yes, it can handle pretty much any type of terrain you might deal with. While Golf Skate Caddy is available for individuals to purchase — $5,000 a unit — most of the sales focus is on golf courses.
by Golf Digest Places
1/17/14 2:42 PM 17
fore your health
Marco Dawson Trusts His Back and Neck Exclusively to Florida’s Dr. Ara Deukmedjian and Team of Deuk Spine Institute American pro golfer, Marco Dawson, held off golf superstars, Bernhard Langer and Colin Montgomerie, to claim victory in what was an exciting end to the Senior Open Championship on Sunday, July 26th, 2015. Dawson, one of the world’s top ten golfers, finished with a 16-underpar total of 264 to take his second title on the Senior Tour this year after more than four hundred games without a win. Preparing for victory, Dawsonunderwent two previous back surgeries, and now trusts his neck and back exclusively to the board certified neuro- spine specialists at Deuk Spine Institute in Melbourne, Florida. “Can’t tell you how many hours I’ve put in on the range,” Mr. Dawson told reporters following his victory. “I’ve had two back surgeries to prove it and I know it has come later than most of the guys. But it came true.” Mr. Dawson is an integrated pain management patient with neurospine surgeon, Dr. Ara Deukmedjian of Deuk Spine Institute. It’s no coincidence pro golfer Marco Dawson selected “Dr. Deuk” and Deuk Spine Institute to care for his neck and back. Dr. Deuk is a renowned neuro-spine surgeon and field pioneer with a focus on minimally invasive, laser and endoscopic back and neck pain treatment. He serves as CEO and Medical Director at Deuk Spine Institute and performs the revolutionary procedure that bears his name: Deuk Laser Disc Repair®. Dr. Deuk has also personally performed over 2,000 cervical decompressive discectomies and treated over 1,000 herniated or degenerated lumbar discs with no major complications in addition to over 300 laser spine surgeries with a 95% success rate in elimination of pain. According to Dr. Deuk “Marco searched far and wide for the right specialist to help him with his
chronic back pain. In doing so, he has seen multiple specialists and decided to trust his neck and back to us.” He continues, “Not only is this a big win for the Deuk Spine family, but also the state of Florida.” “The three-wood I hit in the mist and rain at the 14th was probably one of the best I have ever hit and set up the eagle,” explained Dawson to reporters. Mr. Dawson, who also
reported having fun playing golf in England will play at Royal Troon in The Open Championship in 2016. Dr. Deuk and team will be on hand to care for and ensure Mr. Dawson’s neck and back are at their peak performance. Media Opportunities: Marco Dawson and Dr. Ara Deukmedjian are available for interview. If you are having neck and back pain, call 1-800-Fix-My-Back.
About Deuk Spine Institute and Dr. Ara Deukmedjian: Known as “Dr. Deuk” to our patients, he is a renowned neuro-spine surgeon with a focus on minimally invasive, laser and endoscopic back and neck pain treatment, Dr. Deuk is a pioneer in the field. Dr. Deuk serves as CEO and Medical Director at Deuk Spine Institute and performs the revolutionary procedure that bears his name: Deuk Laser Disc Repair®. Dr. Deuk has also personally performed over 2,000 cervical decompressive discectomies and treated over 1,000 herniated or degenerated lumbar discs with no major complications in addition to over 300 laser spine surgeries with a 95% success rate in elimination of pain. For more information, visit www.deukspine.com. 18
Southern Golf Central • Volume 16, Issue 4
player development
Now just two and a half years from that first day, at just over ten years old, her recent results look like this:
FSGA Junior State Championship (12 & under division) - 1st NFPGA Junior Championship (12 & under division) - 1st Sarasota City Championship (11 & under division) - 1st After these amazing results in some great events, Izzy’s new dream continues to be reinforced. “I love golf” Izzy says, “One day I want to play golf at the highest levels. It is so much fun to practice hard so I can get there!” Being only ten, as she prepares for the 2015 U.S Kids Golf World Championship (where she placed 4th in the 9 year old division last year), she is always in the company of family. If her father, Jose Pellot, isn’t by her side, it is her eldest sister Lisette M. Pellot. Lisette is impressed at the dedication her sister shows and likes helping sup-
Izzy! 20
port her dream. “There are many times Izzy wants to be at the course from sun
As we grow and develop, our lives
up to sun down! It is great to be able to watch and help her succeed, and it
change. This is an accepted fact. And
should be inspiration to anyone looking
every once in a while we have an event
to achieve anything. If you work hard
in our lives that helps truly shape who
and are dedicated you will succeed.
we are. For Izzy M. Pellot, once such
It’s very cool to see my little sister so
even happened just a couple of years
driven.”
ago when she was eight years of age.
Currently Izzy is coached by Matt
She got involved with this program
Frith, a PGA Professional in Orlando
called Little Linksters, run by Bren-
who coaches elite players. Matt said “I
don Elliott, PGA. This Orlando based
have a couple students who will be try-
program has both competitive and
ing to make the transition from Ama-
non-competitive divisions for children
teur to Professional golf soon. It is great
3-10 years old, with the goal of getting
to have Izzy around because when the
them more interested in golf.
older guys might want a break, or to
“Izzy started out in our non-com-
slack off, they notice they are being out
petitive division if I recall correctly”
worked by a ten year old!” Matt laughs,
Brendon says. “I think she shot 56 at
“I wish every student I had was as
Falcon’s Fire. That was her first event
driven as this little girl. She loves play-
with us.”
ing the game, and it’s going to be fun to
From the non-competitive division
see where she goes in it.”
in Little Linksters, to the competitive
With the full support of her family,
one, to winning some, to wanting to
friends, and coach, I’m sure we will be
take golf a little more seriously, Izzy
watching Izzy M. Pellot on many lead-
has progressed rapidly to say the least.
erboards for years to come. Southern Golf Central • Volume 16, Issue 4
in memory of
15 Years Of The Lily
Lily G. Schlofman and Deb Schlofman
“The Lily” annual charity golf tournament was founded by Deb Schlofman in 2001 when her mother, Lily, passed away after struggling with Alzheimer’s for 7 years. Prior to being afflicted with this horrible disease, Lily had been a very active, athletic, and healthy woman. After hosting the tournament for 9 years, we had raised over $150,000. Unfortunately Deb suddenly passed away in December, 2009 despite being an active, athletic, and healthy woman herself. We feel the best way to honor Deb’s memory is to continue her legacy. Therefore, “The Lily” will go on, with all proceeds benefiting the Alzheimer’s Association and Alzheimer’s Family Organization as they have in the past. “The Lily” is a “4 Ladies Only” Scramble Golf Tournament held annually on the Saturday in July closest to Lily’s birthday (July 17th) at Glenview Champions Golf Course in The Villages, Florida. This year they raised $43,800 and $432,890 since inception to help fight Alzheimer’s! For more information: www.thelily.org.
22
Southern Golf Central • Volume 16, Issue 4
Find southern hospitality with Florida charm on the Gulf of Mexico 1 \ hours west of Orlando where you can find a truly relaxing resort experience away from all the hubbub, at a price that's friendly to your budget. Find rare natural treats and access to what real Florida has to offer on the beautiful Nature Coast.
We're ready to help you plan your perfect golf getaway. Add a swim with the manatee tour, fishing charter, or sunset cruise. Dine in our West 82 Restaurant. Relax in our on site spa. Cool off poolside with a cold beverage from our Tiki bar.
Come play in our tournaments! September 6, 2015 • Labor Day Tournament October 15, 2015 • Plantation Belles Invitational (LADIES-ONLY EVENT) November 12, 2015 • Caruth Camp Challenge November 20-22, 2015 • Manatee Amateur Golf Classic (MEN-ONLY EVENT)
Visit our website for savings on special themed packages and adventures or call us at
800-632-6262 9301 W. Fort Island Trail, Crystal River, FL 34429
www.PlantationOnCrystaLRiver.com
special events
AAU National Junior Golf Championship
The 2015 AAU National Junior Golf Championship was played at Mirimichi Golf Course in Millington, TN July 23rd -26th on a very hot week where the temperature was in the upper 90’s and a heat index of 110’s. The tournament combined two National Champion events. AAU National Stroke Play for both boys and girls from age 6 to 18. Where the AAU awarded individual Gold, Silver and Bronze National Champion medals in each age group and the winners received a Bridgestone Golf
24
Viola Greenwood
bag logoed as AAU National Champion.
the runner-up received an AAU Silver
Viola Greenwood, Cookeville, TN, who
The second division was the inaugu-
Medal and the Runner-up “Yost Cup”.
had come from 3 hole behind for a 3
ral “Yost Cup” AAU Match Play Cham-
In the Yost Cup finals the winner was
& 2 win over Madison Chaney, Ca-
pion for boys and girls, a new event
Clay Gregory, Bartlett, TN, 1 Up, over
diz, KY. This was the final match for
for AAU Golf Championship held the
Shannen Brienen , Orlando, FL. This
Madison who will attend the University
same week at Mirimichi Golf Course.
was a great match which was decided
of Evansville next year. Viola is just
The excitement and good com-
on the last putt on the 18th hole after
16 years and she has two fall events
petition of the inaugural Yost Cup
some fantastic golf. The difference
ahead, The Shelby Foundation Fund-
Match Play Championship was the
never was over 1 hole. It included good
raiser at Old Hickory Country Club in
hit for the tournament. The boy and
putting by both players and even a
September and the Tennessee Sports
girl individual Match Play Champion
birdie chip in for Shannen to tie a hole.
Hall of Fame Classic at Natchez Country
was awarded the AAU Gold Medal
Both boys were under par for the day.
Club in Franklin. Viola plans to return
and the Champion “Yost Cup”, and
The Yost Cup finals for girls won by
to defend her AAU title in 2016. Southern Golf Central • Volume 16, Issue 4
special events
Another Green Jacket 2015 LOSER Jody Graham, Steve Weimer and 2014 Loser Ed Clink
2015 Winner Brooke Wagner & Steve Weimer
The 27th annual Ironman Golf Tournament is in the books. After a tight tournament with five players having a shot at winning, congratulations goes to Brooke Wagner for garnering his first Overall Championship, narrowly edging the odd-on favorite, Jim Rice. Congratulations also go to Ben Hardin, the winner of the Cabrera Blue Tees Award. Ben has now carried home trophies from both of the years he has played in the tournament. And lastly, congratulations to our Green Jacket winner, Joey Graham. Joey advised that he now knows how Ironman handicapping works and will be ready to pass on his jacket to another rookie next year. As usual, the weather was perfect and it was great seeing old friends and making new ones as well. Thanks to all of you for making this year’s tournament another great one to remember. The Ironman Golf Tournament was conceived in October, 1989 in Atlanta by five guys who wanted to put together a challenging weekend of golf in a beautiful setting. During the conversa-
tion, ESPN was showing the Ironman Competition in Hawaii, thus the name was chosen. Three weeks later, a group of five played the first Ironman Golf Tournament on Jekyll Island. The tournament consists of 5 golf tournaments over a 2 1/2 day period, played over the three courses on Jekyll Island. Five different formats, 3 courses, players switching groups for each tournament, some team play, some individual play, all handicapped. Sounds complicated but the kinks have been worked out over the 27 years of tournament play. Players accumulate winnings throughout the weekend, with an Overall Champion crowned on Sunday. Although, true competitors always vie for the win, it is true that players
2015 Ironman Golf Tournament
26
should be aware of the Green Jacket awarded for last place. The jacket was purchased at the Hialeah Goodwill Store in 1992 for $2, current value priceless. The jacket is one size fits all and has our logo stitched in hot pink thread. With one half of the field winning money after the first tournament on Friday, a player does not want to leave Friday without some winnings. Players come from all over the United States to play, and many friendships are made at the Ironman. The tournament is about friendship, the beauty of Jekyll Island, and fun competition over a long weekend. Those are the reasons the tournament is vibrant and still going strong after 27 years. Mark your calendars as the 28th annual Ironman Golf Tournament is scheduled for May 13 – 15, 2106. See you in 2016 on Jekyll Island!
The Young and Old
Southern Golf Central • Volume 16, Issue 4
CREATE SOME HEAD-TURNING APPAREL DESIGNED WITH YOUR LOGO PROMINENTLY DISPLAYED AS LOUD OR SUBTLE AS YOU WANT.
Regardless of your goal, Loudmouth Specialty Designs is the perfect solution. Marketing ... Create Walking Billboards which will be a potential customer "magnet" Merchandising ... You own them so you can resell them in your company store for profit! Fundraising ... Sell them at the Fundraising Events that you support and make that check bigger that you write to the Foundation or deserving Organization. e New Featuring th
TURF LIFE Life" "Pin High on shorts
100 piece minimum and you can mix and match the cuts!
Available in: men’s pants, shorts and sportcoats, women’s skorts, shorts, capris, pants and blazers!
By Fred Seely
freddy's fairway thoughts
A few thoughts on attending The Open at St. Andrews:
Few courses have walking paths that actually cross fairways and one is Gleneagles, the Scottish resort that played host to the 2014 Ryder Cup. There’s plenty of signage and, for all of us who dribble the ball along the ground, we kept looking for one of those golf balls that actually fly.
• The greatest seat in sports is in the grandstand next to the 17th green. Even though you can’t see the tee, you’re looking down the fairway and can easily follow the ball. The green complex looks different that you think from television, as it wraps around the deep bunker that everyone goes to every length to avoid. • Here’s how well organized the Royal and Ancient had transportation. St. Andrews isn’t easy to find and it doesn’t even have a train station, so many come from cities at least 40 miles away such as Edinburgh or Aberdeen. It’s a train ride to the Leuchars, station then a five-mile bus ride to the course. It took us exactly 1:15 from the Edinburgh train station to the grandstands at the 17th tee. At this year’s Players in Ponte Vedra Beach, it took my neighbor exactly 1:15 to go the final three miles to the parking lot and the 20-minute walk to the course … where, ironically, you also enter at the 17th tee. • The level of UK announcing was much different that what you hear here. They are reserved and dignified, and don’t waste time 28
trying to read putts even though they’re in a tower (“Whadda ya think, Rog? Left edge?”) The press over there had a big laugh at our announcers trying to act like Brits, such as when Mike Tirico mentioned the “penultimate pairing” and Tom Rinaldi seemed to affect a British accent. • One more TV thing: BBC announcer Peter Alliss says and does what he wants, and he’s catching all sorts of grief from women’s organizations over his comment that Zach Johnson’s wife may have wanted first-place money for a new kitchen. No surprise; if you saw his World Golf Hall of Fame induction in 2012, you’ll remember his statements about a grade school teacher which ended with his giving a onefinger salute to her memory. • Bet you didn’t read this in your local paper: after the playoff, Zach Johnson’s caddie Damon Green explained the win: “My man’s got the biggest pair out there.” • The spectator amenities were incredible. There were a dozen of so grandstands with a total of 26,000 seats, and those were real seats, not bleachers. There was an enormous area at the entrance with hospitality tents, souvenirs stands and giant TV screens, and seating for maybe a thousand plus a large area where fans could lie down and watch the TV. • Don’t you dare call it the “British Open” if you go. Don’t you dare yell “You da man!” or “In the hole,” either. And back in the states: • Three-time Tour winner Donnie Hammond is another who hopes to do something on the Champions Tour. He was selling cars in the Orlando area but the dealership sold, so he’s back in our game. He’s still the only former Jacksonville U. player to win a PGA Tour event but says he’ll soon be joined by another: Russell Knox. • We keep finding ways to lose golf tournaments. A fellow had a
two-shot lead with seven to play in the Jacksonville Amateur recently. He carried the hazard on a par 3, but the ball rolled back in the water. A rules official was there and they determined the drop point,. The steep bank produced three unsuccessful drops so the player placed the ball. He walked up the slope to look at the green and, while he was up there, the ball rolled back into the water’s edge. Now, he could take an unplayable, or try and blast out of the water. He chose the latter, barely got it out, finished with a double and staggered home from there, a loser by six.
Back in June, you read here about a college kid named John Jonas who wanted to go to the U. of Florida but was turned down because he was too small, ended up at the College of Charleston, and then has proceeded to beat every Gator head-to-head in college matches. Now he’s won the Florida Open, starting with a course-record 63. He’s still about 5-foot-6 but keeps proving that sometimes it doesn’t matter.
• Have a sandbagger at your club? And don’t know what to do about it? Didn’t know this until we faced the matter at our club, but the USGA has recommendations. You can, of course, require a signed scorecard, but your Handicap Committee also can cut the offender’s handicap to what it thinks is a proper level. If you need help, call your state golf association’s office. Also, make sure whoever has to carry out the task has, to paraphrase Damon Green, “the biggest pair.” Southern Golf Central • Volume 16, Issue 4
competitive spirits
Tito’s Handmade Vodka is produced in Austin at Texas’ oldest legal distillery. We make it in batches, use old-fashioned pot stills, and taste-test every batch. Tito’s Handmade Vodka is designed to be savored by spirit connoisseurs and everyday drinkers alike. Our process, similar to those used to make fine single malt scotches and high-end French cognacs, requires more skill and effort than others, but it's well worth it.
Tito's American Mule
All-American Lemonade
Ingredients: 1 1/2 oz Tito's Handmade Vodka 1/2 oz fresh squeezed lime 3 oz ginger beer
Ingredients: 1 1/2 oz Tito's Handmade Vodka Lemonade of your choice
Method: Combine all ingredients into chilled mug filled with ice and serve.
Method: Pour Tito's Handmade Vodka over ice in a glass and just add lemonade.
Tito’s Greyhound Ingredients: 1.5 oz of Tito's H andmade Vodka Fresh grapefruit juice Method: Pour Tito's Handmade Vodka over ice, fill the rest of your glass with fresh squeezed grapefruit juice.
Slรกinte
9685 Lake Nona Village Place Orlando, FL 32827 โ ข 407.313.0027 www.nonablue.com
fashion forward Whether it’s polos, shoes, shorts or even socks, golf apparel continues to trend towards styles that can easily be worn on and off the course. One of our new favorites in the women’s category is Lizzie Driver– a golf-lifestyle fashion brand designed specifically to offer ladies sophisticated clothing for the fairway and every day. Founded by close friends Karen Preston and Lorrie Forgatch in 2011, the California-based company has grown significantly in the past few years due to their fashion-forward approach that keeps them ahead of the curve. With most items made right in downtown Los Angeles, con-
sistent high-quality craftsmanship remains top priority each season. Distinguishing themselves from more tech-focused women’s golf brands, Lizzie Driver’s new Mosaic Autumn/ 32
Winter Collection is full of pieces that travel beyond just the first tee. Bright blazers, patterned vests and pants, fine-knit polos and more are perfect for layering and adding the right amount of pop to any outfit. Adding a touch of uniqueness is their incorporation of floral and graphic prints from the iconic Liberty of London, making their products standout with rare designs you won’t see anywhere else. “By drawing from current fashion trends our collections provide styles that transcend the fairways,” says Forgatch. “This presents a great upsell opportunity for our retail partners to offer a line for all aspects of an active woman’s life.” This year the ladies of Lizzie made it even easier to shop their latest collection by launching an e-commerce component to www.LizzieDriver.com and establishing an industry-first Online Boutique. A state-of-the-art buying process with user-friendly ease, the boutique gives members of participating golf clubs the convenient option of safely purchasing through their club’s account number. By simply entering their member information, consumers retain a membership discount, and can have items shipped directly to the clubhouse or home address with just the click of a mouse. “Every woman is different and one of our goals is to provide ladies with the most luxurious and best-feeling garments for their body,” says Preston. “Demand has increased each season, so we wanted to make it convenient for consumers to browse and purchase the latest from Lizzie Driver.” Worn by 2014 Women’s British Open champion Melissa “Mo” Martin and fellow LPGA Tour star Jaye Marie Green, Lizzie Driver’s feminine, classy aesthetic works well for players of all ages and skill levels. For more information: www.LizzieDriver.com. Southern Golf Central • Volume 16, Issue 4
We’d Like To Put A Few Holes In Your Vacation Plans. Quite a few in fact. You see, Fairfield Glade Resort in Tennessee has 90 holes of Championship Golf alone, including Stonehenge, named among the top public courses in Tennessee by Golf Digest, GolfWeek and Golf Magazine. Then there are the many outstanding courses around nearby Crossville, widely known as the golf capital of Tennessee. In all, more than 180 holes of golf just waiting to be played atop the Cumberland Plateau. But your vacation doesn’t have to be all golf. We offer 11 pristine lakes for boating and fishing, 12 miles of nature trails, a state-of-the-art Racquet Center and remarkable restaurants. This year, plan to spend your vacation at Fairfield Glade Resort and Crossville, Tennessee. The South’s holey land for golfers. For information or reservations, call 931-707-2061 • www.fairfieldglade.cc Located between Knoxville and Nashville, just a few miles from I-40 (Exit 322)
Now the fun begins.
www.golfcapitaltenn.com
IGTA
IGTA Tour Surpasses $4,000,000.00 Paid to Players. Your Handicap will allow you to Play and Compete on the Tour that Attracts Top Professionals.
All players can enjoy the opportunity to compete in great competitions which includes many Tour Players. Players with handicaps, including seniors, participate with many Pro’s from the finest tours in the country. The Pro’s also have handicaps from +1 to +4 and enjoy the challenge of going low on these great courses. We feature some of these fine Professionals to illustrate the high caliber golfer with whom any player can be paired. Marco Dawson played with IGTA in March 2014 just after he turned 50. He followed with two wins on the Sunbelt Senior Tour. Then he moved up to Qualifying for the Champions Tour. Winning over $950,000.00 in about six months, in 2014, making every cut. In 2015 he won the Tucson Conquistado-
Tommy Schaff
Robin Byrd
Tim O'Neal
34
res Classic for $210,000.00 and then followed with a big win over Bernard Langer and Colin Montgomerie in the Open Championship in England. Tim O'Neal Web.com Tour, PGA Latin American Tour with three wins in 2013, Hooters and most Florida and east coast Tours. He qualified and played in the 2015 US Open at Chambers Bay. Represented the USA via Egolf Tour with Tommy Schaff, Chris Condello and Jhared Hack in the Morocco-based Atlas Pro Tour in 2011. They all play with the IGTA Tour when schedule permits. Tim has win-
nings of $40,000.00 with the IGTA. Don Wright was the Star of the Million Dollar shoot out on the Golf Channel after success with the WGL. Don played on most of the mini Tours and was sponsored by Michael Jordan in the Big Stakes in Nevada. He also led the IGTA Tour for many years and is the career Money Leader with over $155,000.00. Tommy Schaff was the Star of the Golf Channel Big Break 'Palm Beaches' this past February. He has played on most mini Tours and had to recover from a shattered elbow five years ago. He also represented the USA in Morocco in 2011. Tommy has played with IGTA for five years and has won over $43,000.00. He holds record low score of 63 with IGTA. Justin Peters won the inaugural Golf Channel Big Break and was invited back this past year. Web.com player for several years, mini tour Champion with win on Egolf Tour in Reno for $37,000.00, also won 40th time on Golfslinger Tour. Played with IGTA as schedule permits since 2005 with several victories. Robin Byrd top teaching pro, Leadbetter Academy, and player on PGA with qualifying and playing in US Senior Open in 2014 & 2015. Robin has won over 100 professional events and made over 300 cuts worldwide. Several IGTA wins. Additional Big Break players inSouthern Golf Central • Volume 16, Issue 4
clude Scott Yancy III, Christian Heavens and Natalia Ghilzon who play frequently with the IGTA Tour. PGA and Champions Tour Players include D A Points, Javier Sanchez, Randy Erskine, Andy Svoboda, Jerod Turner, David Morland IV, Joey La Mielle, Bryan Decorso,and Bobby Stroble. Nick Wade, Alex Messiqua, Anthony Aruta, Matt Sita, Jimmy Hazen, Ben Silverman and Jimmy Lytle that play other Tours which include Latin American, Asian Tour, Dubai, Canadian Tour, etc. There are about 100 other Pro's from time to time that a competitor with Handicap can be paired with on Sunday. Now Over 250 Consecutive Tournaments Paying at least $4,000.00 First Prize! Eric Jenkins, Upper Marlboro, Md. wins the $10,000.00 First Prize at The Club at Savannah Harbor. His 78-76 net 139.0, came in his 6th IGTA event, and was for his first check. Raul Perez, Fairburn, Ga. second for $5,000.00 with a net 140.5. Tim O'Neal, Savannah, Ga.was third for $3,000.00 closing with 31 on the final nine. Fourth was Trent Whitfield, West Columbia, S.C. for $2,000.00, In a three way tie for fifth was PJ Carter, Fayetteville, Ga, Natalia Ghilzon, Windsor, Ont, Can, and Scott Yancy III, St Louis, Mo. each winning $1,233.00. Kevin
Justin Peters
Jones, Orlando, Fla and Adrian Evans, Jacksonville, Fla. tied for 8th at $1,050.00 each. Leo Coates, Sr, Herndon, Va. was 10th for $1,000.00. Also in the money were Travis Lewis, Carroll Carter, George Perry, Mike Yaeger and Ben Keith. Waldorf Astoria G.C. hosted the Open Championship with Rocky Justice, Gainesville, Fla opening with two birdies on Sunday and never looked back. His 78-75 net 140.0 was his career best and his 2nd win this year. At 145.0 there was a tie for second betweeen Kevin Jones, Orlando, Fla and Patrick Murakami, Hono-
lulu, Hi. for $1,350.00 and $1,250.00. Stephen Grant, Dover, Eng was fourth for $1,000.00. Jim Roche, West Palm Bch, Fla. was fifth for $800.00 and Dawit Proctor, Winter Garden, Fla. sixth for $500.00. Natalia Ghilzon, Windsor, Ont, Can, Tristan Seitz, Ocala, Fla and Murray Miller, DeLand were also in the money. Whitewater Creek C.C. provided another challenge with Sam Pillion, Villa Rica, Ga winning for the first time for $4,000.00. His even par 72 and net 140.5 was his career best. At 144.0 was Adrian Evans, Jacksonville, Fla in second.
Marco Dawson
Kenny Perry and Trevor Immelman have made Transitions® lenses part of their game.
On the PGA TOUR®, vision is a golfer’s most important equipment. Transitions lenses adapt to changing light to help golfers see more comfortably in all light conditions and help protect eyes from the sun’s harmful UV rays.
Visit your local Vision Source doctor, Dr. James Podschun, located at 2828 Casa Aloma Way, Suite 400 in Winter Park, FL 32792, to ask which Transitions lenses are right for you. 407-671-0960
P ER FORMANCE SUNW E A R
Transitions and the swirl are registered trademarks and Transitions Adaptive Lenses is a trademark of Transitions Optical, Inc. ©2012 Transitions Optical, Inc.
Southern Golf Central • Volume 16, Issue 4
transitions.com
35
living on the links
All joking aside, there’s no question in my mind that with this new golf course, The Greenbrier Sporting Club will be the greatest Sporting Club on earth.” In addition to the new 7,500-yard, 18hole mountaintop championship golf course, other planned amenities for the Oakhurst neighborhood and for future use by members of The Greenbrier Sporting Club include a clubhouse; dining facilities; a pro shop; an outdoor pool; ski and snowboard facilities; and fishing, hiking and biking areas. The existing historic 9-hole Oakhurst Links course—the oldest golf club in America—will also be incorporated into this new planned neighborhood as part of The Greenbrier Sporting
Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, Lee Trevino and Gary Player
Golf Legends Collaborate With The Greenbrier Sporting Club to Design Exclusive New Course Golf icons Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, Gary Player and Lee Trevino are collaborating for the first time on one golf course design—an unprecedented architectural achievement in the history of building golf courses. This proposed mountain course, with dramatic elevation changes and spectacular vistas overlooking the historic Oakhurst Links course, will be the centerpiece of Oakhurst, the newest neighborhood planned for The Greenbrier Sporting Club Subdivision. Jim Justice, owner of The Greenbrier, has brought together these four golf legends to jointly design a championship mountaintop golf course in the future Oakhurst development. His goal is to one day host a major championship, perhaps even a U.S. Open. On top of this ambitious goal, Justice hopes to service the members and honor the legacies of these four icons. The project, which is anticipated to include a modest private ski facility, will break ground in the next month, with the opening of the course scheduled for fall 2016. “We’ve been friends and competitors for a long time, but most of all, we have all loved the game for a long time and I think that’s what’s important,” said Jack Nicklaus, who redesigned The Greenbrier resort’s Greenbrier Course in 1977. “So our goal is to create something unique at Oakhurst. I think having all of our ideas of how the game should be played combined into one golf course positioned right next to Oakhurst Links, where the game has its origins in our country, will be something very special 36
and we will have fun doing it.” “Jack, Arnold, Lee and I have been competing around the world on Tour for more than 50 years, and to be collaborating on this design at this stage of our lives is very special and exciting,” Gary Player said. “We all visited the beautiful site recently, and I have no doubt that together we will fulfill Jim Justice’s lofty goals for this project on not only the golf course but in creating jobs and supporting charities as well.” “I have a particular soft spot in my heart for The Greenbrier—I was invited to play in the Sam Snead Festival, an unofficial pro-am at the resort, in 1955 which was my first year on Tour,” Arnold Palmer said. “Now, I’m looking forward to spending whatever time it takes to do a job for Jim Justice and The Greenbrier that will be an enduring and memorable contribution to golf. Jim wants the course to be a U.S. Open venue by 2023 and that’s our goal, too.” “No four guys with those credentials have ever built a golf course together,” said Lee Trevino, The Greenbrier’s Golf Pro Emeritus. “It’ll be a unique challenge, but we’ll get it done. I’m OK with it, because all of my holes are going to be short par 3s, dogleg right.
Club. Built in 1884 and purchased by The Greenbrier resort in 2012, Oakhurst Links is a 30-acre course, museum and clubhouse listed on the National Register of Historic Places and located just a few miles north of The Greenbrier. Conventional golf clubs are not used at Oakhurst. Golfers—often dressed in period golf attire—play with hickory-shafted clubs and hit gutta-percha balls off tees fashioned from sand and water, the way it was done more than 130 years ago. Upon purchase of a membership in The Greenbrier Sporting Club, Inc., the private equity club and residential community set amidst the 10,000-acre estate of The Greenbrier, residents of The Greenbrier Sporting Club Subdivision also will have use and access to exclusive Club amenities and activities. Membership also provides access to more than 55 activities at The Greenbrier resort. “It’s not often you are truly in the midst of history being made,” said Jim Justice, owner of The Greenbrier. “The collaboration of the four icons— Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, Gary Player and Lee Trevino—is, without question, an incredible event to be happening in our great state of West Virginia. Additionally, bringing leaders of business from around the globe and an array of celebrities will bring added attention to our great state, along with business opportunities that result in jobs for our people.” To learn more about The Greenbrier Sporting Club, please visit: www.greenbriersportingclub. com or call 888-741-8989. Southern Golf Central • Volume 16, Issue 4
feature
By Greg Wise
I had the pleasure of meeting with the staff at On Top of the World Communities, in Ocala, Florida. What a fabulous place to live. First of all, the activity schedule was incredible. More than 250,000 square feet of amenities. Recreation Centers. Tennis Clubs. 5 Swimming Pools on site, including one indoor pool set up for lap swimming and aqua aerobics programming. Looking at the schedule of activities and the quality of selections, I truly believe that if you are bored in this community… it is your own fault. I toured 10 model homes available. These homes are magnificent. Ranging from roughly 1,400 square feet of air conditioned living space up to over 3,000 square feet. Multi-car garages, flex rooms for adjusting your lifestyle as it changes. So many design changes have gone in to these homes that as you tour the model centers, it looks as though you are walking through a home design magazine in real life, with the way they are decorated. Jason Taflinger, Sales Director, On Top of the World Communities, mentioned, “We have taken pride in the way we show and deliver our homes, exceeding the expectations of our new home purchasers.” Jason also mentioned having two full time design consultants to help you with your home design selections. On Top of the World talks about the energy efficient way they build homes. Saving an average of 30% on your energy consumption on any of their homes. These homes are concrete block, steel reinforced construction and built to exceed the government energy standards. Did I mention they have three 18 hole golf courses? 2 of the 18 hole courses are for residents of On Top of the World and their guests. The 3rd course at On Top of the World is Candler Hills Golf Club. Candler Hills is a par-72 semi-private championship golf course that offers 5 38
14th Fairway
sets of tees for you to play to your level. 4,877 yards from the front tees to 7,233 years from the Black, professional tees. Matt Hibbs, Director of Golf, mentioned, “Candler Hills gets tested each year when the Ocala Open returns every March, our facility is one of the favorites of the Florida Professional Golf Tour in the Spring,” Matt went on to say, “We have had Ted Potter (PGA Tour) win 2 titles, Travis Hampshire set the course record of 59 two years ago on his way to winning the event.” How does your game size up? You could be playing the longest Par 5 in Florida at 662 yards… and a 40 foot elevation change. But the bad news is… it is going uphill as you weave your way through this serpentine fairway toward the well protected green.
While discussing course conditions with Denise Mullen, LPGA and Head Professional at Candler Hills, Denise mentioned the recent 2014 Environmental Leaders in Golf Award that was presented to Andrew Jorgensen, CGCS, and Candler Hills Golf Club. Suddenly my thoughts shifted to how this course is maintained and what quality staff of professionals it takes in order to receive this type of an award, co-sponsored by Golf Digest and the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America.
Andrew and the staff won the Chapter Award for Public Courses and was presented this award in San Antonio on February 25, 2015. To put this in prospective… there are roughly 15,000 golf courses in the United States. Two of the 16 courses presented this award in February were in Florida. One was Andrew Jorgensen and his staff at Candler Hills Golf Club and the other; Tom Vlack, CGCS, TPC Sawgrass, Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida. So, what does that tell you? When I sat down with Andrew, I was shocked at how far they are looking in to the future and it is all based on a storied past of preserving the ground on which we live. The staff is constantly testing new products for their usefulness while not damaging the ground, ground water or the environment. Candler Hills Golf Club did away with over-seeding in the fall for color through our winters here in Florida. Andrew said, “It took a lot to convince the players that this was the better method. Over-seeding damages the actual turf grass while utilizing rye grass.” Andrew went on to say, “What we have transitioned to is a liquid over-seeding which involves using a color pigment and liquid fertilizer which allows us to stay green throughout the winter
Test Pattern of Grass
Southern Golf Central • Volume 16, Issue 4
100% Solar powered golf course maintenance facility
without damaging the root structures. The end result is a course that plays consistent throughout the year. We went to visit the Golf Course maintenance and operation’s center. You guessed it. 100% run by Solar Power. What an amazing site. Andrew explained some of the awards on his wall. One of the major one’s that I picked up on was the Certification of Best Management Practices on Florida Golf Courses. Andrew mentioned, “Most golf courses have one certified person on their staff.” Candler Hills has 5 full time “certified” staff members. Playing the course you will encounter numerous “Wild Flower” plantings. It was described as giving back to nature. Although there aren’t any bee hives on the course itself, the course is close enough to a major park where a beehive is present. The bees migrate to
species can live and regenerate. “ It’s all about nature and protecting the environment,” Andrew explained. He also shared information about “The Binder” that is the basis on which they operate On Top of the World Golf Courses. This binder was about 4” thick and filled with information on what they can use on the golf courses. What they can never use on the golf course… and a complete schedule of how to manage the properties. My visit was truly a glimpse in to the future with this pristine golf course that has been generated by concerned individuals setting high expectations of quality. At Southern Golf Center magazine, our hat is off to the staff and management of Candler Hills Golf Course for truly being the “Stewards of the Land” creating a Sustainable Environment for generations to come.
Wild flowers on the course
the course for the pollen generated. We visited one of the many nests located on the Candler Hills golf course for Burrowing Owls that biologists have constructed so the Southern Golf Central • Volume 16, Issue 4
39
By Jennifer Klemmetson Public Relations Specialist, Ewing Irrigation and Landscape Supply
Maintain Healthy Turf with Less Water
Drought, water restrictions and high water bills are forcing many to cut back on water use, but this doesn’t mean turf areas have to dry up. With AquaSmart PRO, you can reduce watering to as little as once per week or less, and still keep plants healthy and green. AquaSmart PRO is a fine polymercoated sand that can absorb and hold up to 12 times its weight in water, releasing it gradually into the soil and
when it’s mixed and worked into
(double the standard irrigation run
the soil and root zone. For existing
time) to fully hydrate the AquaSmart
turf, mow and aerate before applying
PRO. Return to normal irrigation run
AquaSmart PRO to help get it into the
times, but reduce watering frequency
soil. Then do a heavy watering (about
by up to 50 percent. For example, if you
twice as long as normal) to activate it.
are watering four times daily during
You can also use AquaSmart PRO
establishment, reduce watering to two
when overseeding. After aeration, use a
or three times.
drop spreader to apply AquaSmart PRO
For more information, visit
(the recommended application rate in
www.AquaSmartPro.com. Stop by or
humid climates is 20-30 pounds per
contact your local Ewing Irrigation
1,000 sq. ft.). Apply one heavy watering
store. www.EwingIrrigation.com/
roots as the surrounding soil dries out. This allows you to extend the periods between waterings, as more water stays in the root zone. In addition to reducing watering frequency, AquaSmart PRO has a number of applications: · Better turf seed germination. Increased moisture helps seeds take root and grow. · Decreased nutrient/fertilizer loss. Water-soluble nutrients are absorbed and released over time, reducing runoff. · Improved plant growth. Water and nutrients remain available to plants for a longer period of time. · Repairing dry spots in turf. AquaSmart PRO aids water absorption in the soil, increasing moisture in dry spots. AquaSmart PRO is most effective 40
Southern Golf Central • Volume 16, Issue 4
By Melanie Bonds and Amanda Miles
Golf Course Superintendent Stephen Miles, CGCS, Presides over Inaugural of the Deep South Turf Expo in October
October 13-15, 2015 will see the launch of the Deep South Turf Expo in Biloxi, Mississippi. This turf conference and trade exhibition is a collaboration of The Alabama Turfgrass Association, Mississippi Turfgrass Association, Alabama Golf Course Superintendents Association, Gulf Coast Golf Course Superintendents Association and the Louisiana-Mississippi Golf Course Superintendents Association. Not since the Southern Turfgrass Association disbanded has a regional effort of this magnitude came together. The formation of the Deep South was partly at the behest of exhibitors and sponsors who felt they could get more “bang for their buck” by bringing Turfgrass professionals from the southern states together, but the organizations ultimate focus is on providing service to their membership. According to Tricia Roberts, Executive Director of the Deep South Turf Expo, “With a regional turf conference we can bring in the top educators to provide the highest quality educational program for all turf managers. Additionally, the DSTE will offer networking opportunities that will span over a four-state region…not one state and/or organization. Members can reunite with college buddies, share success stories with peers outside their “competition zone” and make new friends and business contacts!” The Expo has been fortunate in the leadership from a Board of Directors hand-picked by the founding organizations. Stephen Miles, CGCS, was elected the first President of DSTE, and he is a fitting choice as a superintendent of The Preserve Golf Course in Biloxi and former Presidents of both the Louisi42
ana/Mississippi GCSA and the Mississippi Turfgrass Association. Stephen grew up in Mississippi and as a high school baseball player enjoyed working on athletic fields. This interest eventually led him to a Turfgrass management degree from Mississippi State. Ever one for a challenge, Stephen learned growing bentgrass was considered one of the hardest
things to do in the southeast transition zone, so he began his career after his sophomore year by interning at TPC Southwind in Memphis. It was a perfect fit for Stephen since TPC managed bentgrass in the southeast and was a PGA Tour event course. Stephen went from there to work as assistant-in-training, and later as an
assistant under Lee McLemore, CGCS at The Country Club of Birmingham. When Willow Point Golf and Country Club in Alexander City, Alabama was about to undergo a major reconstruction and needed someone with bentgrass experience, Stephen applied for the challenge and is grateful to Cole McInnis for giving him the opportunity to gain that experience. Stephen says, “It was a dream job for me as far as getting to do a grow-in and being out on a 44,000 acre lake. I also met my wife, Amanda, there and started my family.” Stephen was still looking for his chance to become a head superintendent, however, and after the grow-in at Willow Point, in early 2005, a sub-contractor at Willow Point called Cole and told him about a new course that was going to be built near Biloxi, Mississippi. Stephen interviewed and got the
offer for Head Superintendent at The Preserve Golf Club. “I was excited to come down and work on a brand new Jerry Pate golf course,” Stephen says. “It was a challenge because after the first three months of construction, Hurricane Katrina came through and caused significant damage to the course while also wiping away my house.” Southern Golf Central • Volume 16, Issue 4
After a few months of picking up meals ready to eat and water for the crew, Stephen and his guys had an excellent grow-in with 100 percent coverage and championship quality turf conditions. After the grand opening, Stephen was named as The Preserve’s Director of Operations. Unfortunately, after a couple of years, the greens started to show signs of major stress. Through testing, Stephen discovered that they had sodic irrigation water. They were challenged with that for the first few years, and after finally resolving the issue there were still localized areas of poor turf coverage and poor water infiltration rates. “When rebuilding the chipping green complex we discovered an extremely wet root zone mix that was contaminated with clay. The contaminated root zone mix interacted with our sodic irrigation water and ultimately was destroying the internal drainage of the greens,” Stephen says. Dr. Ronnie Duncan and Chris Hartwiger with the USGA verified that Stephen’s recommendations for a complete reconstruction of the greens was the correct course of action. In October of 2013, they began trimming and thinning trees to have adequate light and in the summer of 2014 the reconstruction was completed. Stephen says, “We now have a completely new root zone mix with TifEagle greens and TifGrand collars. I feel like my staff and I have our brains back now that things respond the way they should.” He says further, “It makes me wonder how many golf courses in our area have the same problems that we had and whether the superintendent is walking around pulling his hair out due to low quality materials or improper installation during construction.” The Preserve has had wonderful reviews this summer and will host the Deep South Turf Expo Golf Tournament this fall. Stephen is thankful for the trials they have had at the course because he’s become a better turfgrass professional. For countless hours, he studied and learned about soil chemistry and how water can impact soils. “As your water so goes your soils,” he says. Perhaps because of understanding the difficulties with soil and water on his course, Stephen has taken on another challenge. He chairs the Louisiana/Mississippi Golf Course Superintendent’s Committee on Best Management Practices. The BMP Committee had its first formal meeting on June 23rd and is working in conjunction with the MDEQ (Mississippi Dept. of Environmental Quality) and LADEQ (Louisiana Dept. of Environmental Quality) on formalizing nutrient management plans in the hopes of protecting the industry from future regulation. Stephen says, “I don’t know how much our membership follows all the regulations coming down from EPA but there’s been some recent rulings on the Waters of the United States (WOTUS) that will have a major impact on golf course operators all around the nation. We need to be proactive as industry professionals in changing the public perception about golf course superintendents.” He says further, “Superintendents have known for a long time that environmentalism is simply being more efficient with the resources we use every day! We want our nutrients to stay on target and not be wasted down our rivers and streams. It just makes good business sense.” The DSTE Conference will be hosted at the Beau Rivage, with a static tradeshow at the Mississippi Coast Convention Center that will have enough room for greens mowers, sod harvesters, chemical sprayer trucks and forklifts. Of course, the DSTE will also feature outstanding educational sessions for every segment of the industry as well as serving as a place where those in the Turfgrass industry can network with their peers. According to Stephen, “This will be an excellent opportunity for education, socializing and networking, and I am honored to be working with so many influential industry leaders in our area. We invite you to visit DeepSouthTurfExpo.org!” Southern Golf Central • Volume 16, Issue 4
43
grip ot & sip it
William Hill Estate Winery Becomes “Official Wine” of the PGA TOUR
The PGA TOUR and William Hill Estate Winery (William Hill) announced today a new multiyear marketing relationship that designates William Hill Estate Winery as the “Official Wine of the PGA TOUR, Champions Tour and Web.com Tour” in North America. Located in the Napa Valley, William Hill is owned by the E&J Gallo Winery and is a purveyor of luxury Chardonnay and other sought-after varietals crafted from California’s premier coastal regions. The agreement runs through 2018. As part of the PGA TOUR’s Official Marketing Partner program, William Hill plans to bring the collaboration to life through engaging consumer promotional displays at retail and localized tournament support. William Hill’s PGA TOUR activations will include on-site wine bars with interactive displays, sampling opportunities and other premium branded activations. William Hill Estate wines will also be featured at premier clubs within the PGA TOUR’s Tourna-
44
ment Players Club (TPC) Network. “The demographics of our fan base represent an ideal fit for William Hill’s upscale wine offerings, as do the members and guests of our TPCs,” said Tom Wade, Chief Commercial Officer of the PGA TOUR. “We see a very strong alignment between our brands and are excited to have a chance to work together on programs for retail, our tournaments and TPCs that will help support the strong growth trajectory of William Hill.” With roots deeply anchored in the Napa Valley, William Hill Estate crafts acclaimed wines from the undiscovered vineyards of California’s most celebrated regions. Beginning with William Hill Estate’s 140acre benchland vineyard near the Silverado Trail, Wine-
maker Mark Williams turns to the hidden corners of southern Napa as well as California’s celebrated North and Central Coasts to create a unique collection of rich, expressive wines. The relationship brings Napa Valley closer to home for PGA TOUR fans. “For the first time, PGA TOUR visitors will be able to have an authentic Napa Valley William Hill Estate experience in their home states, all while sitting alongside some of the best golf courses in the United States and watching the best golfers in the world,” said Rich Kranzmann, Vice President and General Manager of Gallo’s Premium Wine Division, of the collaboration. “We are looking forward to what’s ahead.” Fans of wine and the PGA TOUR can visit the William Hill Estate website at williamhillestate.com and register for a chance to win a four-night trip for two to the Napa Valley to attend the 2015 Frys.com Open PGA TOUR stop at Napa’s Silverado Resort and Spa, with a private tour experience at William Hill Estate Winery.
Grip it and Sip it.
Southern Golf Central • Volume 16, Issue 4
www.werbemeierei.de; main photo: WINSTONgolf.com
German-rainbow-open The Annual International German LGBT Golf Championship since 2005
Putting it proudly ...
11th German-Rainbow-Open
Be Part of EUROPE‘s unique LGBT Community Golf Tournament October 3rd – 4th 2015 at WINSTONgolf in Schwerin/Germany, host of the EUROPEAN Senior Tour since 2012 • get together • 2 tournament days on 2 fantastic golf courses • evening event • award ceremony • appr. 150 players
Schwerin Hamburg Berlin
Hamburg
Schwerin Berlin
Germany Frankfurt a. M. Munic
To register for the 11th GERMAN RAINBOW OPEN 2015 and for more information visit german-rainbow-open.com
product showcase header
Big Max Golf If running four miles during the summer doesn’t sound too enticing, you’ll be happy to hear that walking 18 holes qualifies as the equivalent in terms of cardiovascular exercise. And there’s more good news: leaving the electric cart parked in the cart barn will help you accumulate the 10,000 daily steps recommended by most physicians while burning close to 2,000 calories. The health benefits of walking are not new, but the way push carts enable healthy golfing habits may be illuminating. Gone are the days of having to carry your bag as a badge of honor as a ‘real’ golfer. To spare golfers from knee, hip and back injuries as much as possible, companies like Big Max Golf carefully research and improve on cart designs to evolve the health related aspects of the walking golf game. The new Z 360 push cart features a swiveling front wheel that rotates 360 degrees, making the cart extremely easy and smooth to maneuver. Accessories like the mesh net, umbrella, cell phone and cup holders make for a completely customizable cart that is sure to fit the needs of every golfer. Investing in a push cart gives you a legitimate excuse to replace a two hour run on the treadmill with a scenic, social and fun round of golf. What better excuse could you want to hit the links this summer? Take a push cart like the Z 360 and enjoy your next round while making the healthy choice when it comes to golf. The full range of BIG MAX products is available at Golfsmith.com and budgetgolf.com
Epson M-Tracer Epson’s M-Tracer golf swing analyzer provides golfers of all levels tremendous insight into every element of their swing. M-Tracer is a lightweight, club-mounted golf swing analyzer that securely attaches to the golf club grip to capture the golf swing at 1,000 samples per second and send data to an iOS or Android smartphone or tablet in real-time via Bluetooth. With a built-in Inertial Measurement Unit derived from Epson’s industrial sensors, the M-Tracer tracks and records the swing path of the club, club-head speed, club-head path, face angle at the time of impact, tempo and more. The M-Tracer smartphone app shows the golfer’s full swing path in 3D and offers the ability to rotate the view and compare their swing against that of a pro-level golfer or their own previously recorded swings. The app also provides comprehensive graphical analysis of the impact zone, shaft rotation, club speed and swing tempo. It even has a built in freeze frame option for the critical “halfway back” and “at the top” positions. For more information: Epson.com/golf.
Chase54 Fall 2015 CHASE54’s FALL 2015 collection pays tribute to world-class golf, travel and adventure destinations. This focus aligns with modern fashion trends and creative synergies from around the world. The new line incorporates its new branding launched at the PGA Show in Orlando with special details featuring the new logo and tagline – FOR THE PURSUIT. It also features six signature FUSION54 technologies: DryFuze®, ClimaFuze™, UltraFuze™, GreenFuze™, FeatherFuze™ and FreSHIELD™. From the Lumbok, Indonesia grouping for women, the Bayan Skort ($84.95) is a crowd pleaser on or off the course. This flirty circle skort has unique perforation offering a peekaboo printed skort beneath. The 18” outseam is just the right length and the blend of poly/spandex will keep her dry and ultra cool, in many ways. A corresponding top, the Ekas Sleeveless Polo ($72.95) features the same print found on the undershort of the skort. The double-snap collar and solid Peacock accents complete the piece. The polo has the same DryFuze® technology in the fabric, keeping her ultra-cool. Visit CHASE54 online: www.chase54.com 46
Southern Golf Central • Volume 16, Issue 4
product review
Imperial Headwear Imperial Headwear, the leader in customized headwear for the golf market, debuts its Spring 2016 collection. 2016 marks the company’s 100th anniversary and Imperial celebrates this milestone with a special catalog and the most extensive and diverse headwear collection in the golf market. Expert craftsmanship and superior materials have been a tradition at Imperial for 100 years. The Company pays close attention to every detail on every piece of headwear produced. Small but important features are not overlooked, and everything that goes into Imperial caps is put there with a definitive purpose of making a better product. The “One 9 One 6 Collection” celebrates the values upon which Imperial Headwear was founded in the year 1916; it’s classic headwear with a modern twist. “The Centennial” is a new style that pays tribute to the company’s past. Available in two sizes and three colors, it features a six-panel driver cap silhouette with heather wool fabric. The Centennial is completed with a leatherdebossed patch with the Imperial logo, and club logo can be added to the back of the cap. Imperial’s specialty headwear styles are now all under the umbrella of the new “WeatherSTRONG Collection”.
Glukos All-natural performance energy company, GLUKOS, believes
they’ve found the simple cure for golfers looking to perform on the course. GLUKOS provides golfers with a more effective source of performance energy that provides twice the energy in half the time of leading energy products. GLUKOS’s premise is simple – an “oral IV.” Containing all the same ingredients as an IV bag, including water, Glucose – the “good” sugar and some electrolytes, such as potassium and sodium, GLUKOS is immediately absorbed into the bloodstream providing instantaneous, usable energy. Glucose, the most important ingredient, is known as the “good” sugar because it’s the only fuel the human body can use to produce natural energy, while being the purest form of energy available. Available in six different delivery mechanisms, including powder, gel, tablets, gummies, bars and ready-to-drink, GLUKOS does not contain caffeine, which promotes de-hydration or the “bad” sugars – fructose and sucrose – that create triglycerides and lactic acid in the muscles, which prohibit physical and mental performance on the golf course. Golfers using GLUKOS will avoid an increased heart rate associated with caffeine-based drinks that may affect a golfer’s putting. GLUKOS is available nationwide at PGA Tour Superstores, Worldwide Golf Shops, Dick’s Sporting Goods and hundreds of specialty retail stores along with www.glukosenergy.com.
Nectar Sunglasses
When you’re out enjoying the course, the last thing you want to worry about is breaking your favorite pair of sunglasses. Let’s face it: you are NOT going to stop your golf game, so you need a pair of sunglasses that lets you do what you do, with no worries. Nectar Sunglasses are made for you. With a variety of styles available, choose from Sunnies or Polarized and know that you will be setting the standard for style on the course. And wherever your swing takes you, rest assured that should your shades end up the victim of an epic fail, you can replace them for $10! Buy a pair for between $20-$30 and replace them for $10. It’s that easy. Whether they break from sitting on them in the golf cart or that stray ball, they will be replaced. For $10. No questions asked. Nectar Sunglasses was created by two college friends: Sean Holmes and Dylan Roukous. Starting out by building each and every pair of sunglasses by hand, Nectar Sunglasses has now grown to include distribution all over the US and in 24 other countries. With a goal of providing their customers a great pair of sunglasses at an affordable price point, they encourage everyone to get out, live the sweet life, and take risks. To see the styles and pick your pair, visit: www.nectarsunglasses.com
Project Pop Fresh to the market is Project Pop, an all-natural popcorn company that’s leading a snacking revolution to put the yum back in healthy eating. Project Pop keeps it real with simple, vegan ingredients – no preservatives included. The delicious kettle corn features a unique mix of organic ingredients including non-GMO kernels popped in extra virgin coconut oil, sweetened and then finished with a dash of Himalayan pink salt, sold in a resealable bag, perfect for snacking on the go. $6.00 Project Pop’s Kettle Corn is available on http://eatprojectpop.com. Southern Golf Central • Volume 16, Issue 4
47
golf history
Tarpon Springs Golf Course Located in the City of Tarpon Springs in Pinellas County, the Tarpon Springs Golf Course is part of Florida’s rich golf history. The golf course, which is a featured partner on the Florida Historic Golf Trail, is also tied to the legacy and heritage of Florida’s Greek community and the sponge industry in the state of Florida. The golf course traces its beginnings to 1912, when a golf club was organized and construction of golf links began. The city of Tarpon Springs hired W.D. Leith, from Edinburgh, Scotland, to supervise the work of putting the finishing touches on the course. In 1926, the golf course architectural firm of Wayne Stiles & John Van Kleek was retained to completely rebuild the existing 9-hole course and add nine more holes. Today, the 18-hole, par-72 Tarpon Springs Golf Course features four sets of tees playing from 5,100 to 6,200 yards. As with many of the courses designed in the early 1900s, Tarpon Springs features many holes that make it play longer than the actual length, and small elevated greens. The course is now owned and operated by the City of Tarpon Springs for the golfing enjoyment of the public. “We are pleased to feature the historic Tarpon Springs Golf Course on the Florida Historic Golf Trail,” said Secretary of State Ken Detzner. “At Tarpon Springs Golf Course, players can enjoy the challenges of a course that represents over 100 years of Florida history.”
About the Florida Historic Golf Trail Florida’s golf history is recognized as one of the oldest in the nation, dating back to the 1890s, when a number of early courses were created along with the development of railroads and hotels in the state. The Florida Historic Golf Trail, a program of the Florida Department of State, features and promotes historic, publicly accessible golf courses that can still be played on today. The Trail’s collection of more than 50 historic courses throughout the state celebrates Florida’s early golf heritage from the late 1800s through World War II. A unique feature of the Florida Historic Golf Trail program is the specially designed scorecard, which list the courses on the trail. Golfers can use the scorecard to check off the courses they play, and write in their score and date. Scorecards are available at all the partner golf courses and on the Florida Historic Golf Trail website. Find the historic course near you and Come Play on History! Visit FloridaHistoricGolfTrail.com. 48
Southern Golf Central • Volume 16, Issue 4
2015 VIP GOLF CARD B
E N I L N O UY
! Y A D O T
ONLY
$
99
. 00
FREE 18 HOLE ROUND with cart at each participating course. EXPIRES 10/31/15
www.thegolfinsiders.com PLAY CENTRAL FLORIDA’S TOP-RATED COURSES!
Leave the Hustle and Bustle for Old Florida Charm Highlands County Boasts 17 Scenic Courses
1-800-545-6021 Southern Golf Central • Volume 16, Issue 4
www.VisitHighlandsCounty.com 49
By Mike May
duffer header dan
The Confluent of Golf & Auto Racing
7th Hole
Ladies and gentlemen, start your golf carts! That is an appropriate message for any foursome that tees it up at the Brickyard Crossing Golf Club in Indianapolis, Indiana. This 18-hole stretch of championship golf is named in honor of its more famous sporting neighbor, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway (aka, the ‘ole Brickyard). While it’s safe to say that while Pete Dye’s most famous golf design is probably the Stadium Course in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, the annual home of The Players Championship, one of his most innovative creations may well be the Brickyard Crossing which sits in the shadows of the grandstands of the World Center of Racing. Yes, it’s a blend of golf and motor sports. This golf course sits inside and outside of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, the site of the Indianapolis 500 in May and NASCAR’s Brickyard 400 in early August. The Brickyard Crossing Golf Club has 14 holes situated on the outskirts of the Speedway and four holes that are located within the infield of the World Center of Racing. Those four golf holes are a hop, skip, and a jump
away from Gasoline Alley. And, to reach those four infield holes, you must drive your golf cart through a tunnel which is under the actual race track. To add to the authenticity of the experience, each flag on every pin is a black-andwhite checkered flag with the logo of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway sewn across the flag. So, when you play Brickyard Crossing, you get 18 checkered-flag experiences. Everybody is a winner at Brickyard Crossing! It’s worth noting that space is not an issue at the infield of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. It’s so big that there’s room to place Churchill Downs, Yankee
Players on the 7th Hole
50
Stadium, the Wimbledon tennis facility, the Roman Coliseum, and the Vatican City in the infield. In the case of Brickyard Crossing, it’s holes eight, nine, ten, and eleven – one par three and three par fours. As you would expect, since you make the turn inside the Speedway, the snack shop near the 10th tee is called “The Pit Stop.” “As a race fan and a golfer, I still get goose
bumps when I pull into the parking lot,” said Kurt Schmidt of Indianapolis. “It’s a unique venue. You have never seen anything like it,” says Jeff Schultz, golf professional at Brickyard Crossing. “We have 14 playable holes and four finishing holes where you have to bear down. This is a serious test, but it won’t beat you up. It’s a typical Pete Dye layout.” As you play holes 1-7 and 12-18, the grandstands of the Speedway are always lurking in the background, but they never impact play. While you can get somewhat carried away by the blend of golf and motor sports, it’s important to remember that Brickyard Crossing is a fun layout with more than one way to save par on every hole. It truly is a golf ‘package’ which features 18 memorable golf experiences. Not every golf course can make that claim. “It’s a great golf 13th Hole course, from beginning to end,” says Kurt Wieneke of Indianapolis. “Those four holes in the infield are well-designed. They will excite and energize any golfer. If you like golf and racing, it’s a pilgrimage that you must make.” Generally speaking, Pete Dye’s design philosophy at Brickyard Crossing gives each golfer a liberal amount of room off the tee and many different pin placements on large, undulating greens. Make plans to play the Brickyard. It’s one of Indiana’s top courses and deservedly so, but avoid the temptation of visiting Gasoline Alley. No golf carts are allowed! Southern Golf Central • Volume 16, Issue 4
LEGENDARY CHAMPION,
LEGENDARY ICE CREAM With a shared commitment to quality, family and philanthropy long associated with golf’s greatest champion, Schwan’s has teamed with Jack Nicklaus and wife Barbara to launch a line of premium ice cream. Schwan’s proudly sponsors the Nicklaus Children’s Health Care Foundation. *
*
DIG IN. ENJOY THE GOODNESS.
Available in 7 Flavors!
Based on a lifelong love of ice cream, Jack and wife Barbara were personally involved every step in the development of the flavors. Warm Spiced Butter Pecan, Chocolate Peanut Butter Swirl, Salted Caramel Toffee, Strawberry Lemonade, Triple Chocolate, Coffee and Donuts, and Homemade Vanilla are available at participating grocers. Strawberry Lemonade, Triple Chocolate and Coffee and Donuts can be ordered on Schwans.com for convenient home delivery!
Available in Stores in and around Columbus, OH
Available in Stores in FL, AL, GA, MS, SC, TN, NC
Order online on Schwans.com
*Schwan’s Global Supply Chain, Inc.
www.schwans.com/jacknicklaus
Get social: #golffreezesover/@jacknicklaus/@schwans © 2015 Schwan’s Global Supply Chain, Inc. All Rights Reserved. 0128
orth florida PGA north florida PGA north florida PGA north florida PGA north
By Steve Morris
Rod Perry Defends North Florida PGA Professional Title
Rod Perry, Crane Lakes Golf & CC successfully defended his title in our NFPGA Professional Championship hosted by Southern Hills Plantation
Congratulations to our NFPGA Members and PGA of America National Award Winners! Bill Hughes, TPC Sawgrass is the Bill Strausbaugh Award Winner. Russ Libby, Hidden Hills CC is the Horton Smith Award
52
Club. Rod shot 11 under to win by 4. Conditions were challenging due to rain and storms and the final two groups had to return another day to conclude the championship. John Duckworth, Atlantic Beach CC shot 67 in the final round to make a nice move up the leaderboard to finish second. Our remaining qualifiers for the 2016 PGA Professional National Championship are: David Hronek, Bobcat Trail, David Damesworth, Orange Tree Golf Club, Dan Olsen, Blue Sky GC, Dylan Malafronte, Carrollwood CC, Jim Garrison, Rocky Point and Ryan Hritz, Countryside CC. Thank you to Southern Hills Plantation for their efforts during trying conditions. Thank you to our National Sponsors. Thank you to Chase54 for providing the shirts for the players. Thank you to progolf weather and Global Golf Sales for their support. Thank you to all the competitors for their patience and passion to compete. Winner. David Windsor, Adaptive Golf Academy is the Patriot Award Winner. These gentlemen are best of the best. We are proud of their passion, efforts and dedication to the PGA and the game of golf. Finally, The North Florida PGA
Rod Perry, Crane Lakes Golf & CC made a strong rally in round two to claim our NFPGA Stableford Championship with 87 points! Rod made 4 birdies and an eagle to move up the leaderboard and overtake round one leader Greg Koch, Ritz Carlton Grande Lakes. Chris DeBusk, Havana CC, The Villages also made a big move to finish second with 82 points. Thank you to our partners GolfGameBook, progolf weather and the PGA TOUR for sponsoring the event. Thank you to Kevin Kenny and Tampa Palms for hosting. Foundation, announced this year at the Celebration Gala by Chairman Bob Intrieri, is off to a strong start thanks to the efforts of the Committee and Board. Things are starting to ramp up, and community and Member engagement announcements coming soon.
Southern Golf Central • Volume 16, Issue 4
Escape to Your Ultimate Country Club Experience
Stay & Play Packages also available! Contact Sharon Gebhart at (352)588-2233, Ext. 300 for more information
Lake Jovita Golf & Country Club offers a variety of membership opportunities to suit the ultimate in country club living. Our semi-private facility offers amenities including 36 holes of championship golf, 4 Har-Tru clay tennis course, fitness center and fine dining. Contact Membership Coordinator Mike Johnson at (352)588-2233, Ext.305 or membership@lakejovita.com to learn more about our beautiful facilities.
www.lakejovitagolfcc.com
outh orth florida PGA north south florida florida PGA PGA north southflorida floridaPGA PGAnorth southflorida floridaPGA PGAnorth south
By Tori Stock
In July, eight South Florida PGA Professionals volunteered their time to give instruction to kids in attendance of the Kids Fitness Festival. This is the sixth year the South Florida PGA has been onsite with PGA Professionals to teach golf to over 5,000 kids from across South Florida. Over 45 different sport clinics were in attendance at the event including: hockey, judo, pickle ball and polo in addition to many others.
54
The Kids Fitness Festival took place
ceeds from the event benefit the Palm
at the Palm Beach County Convention
Beach County Sports Commission, a
Center in West Palm Beach. All pro-
non-profit organization that provides local youths the opportunity to learn sportsmanship, teamwork and citizenship through sport. Thank you to SFPGA Professionals: Judy Alvarez, Ed Angulo, Jeff Feingold, Robb Heering, Andrew Jones, Eddie Oliver, Jimmy Petrino and Juan Pino for helping out with the event!
Southern Golf Central • Volume 16, Issue 4
orth GA offlorida America PGAPGA northofflorida America PGAPGA north of America florida PGA PGAnorth of America florida PGA north of Am
By Gregg Dewalt, Tee Times Editor
PGA Professional and Player- Johan Kok Johan Kok has a little unfinished
said. “It’s not often you get an opportunity to open a new course in the U.S. nowadays. I couldn’t pass that up.” With the new job taking up the bulk of his time, Kok had little opportunity to hone his game for the PNC. “I played one scramble and one
business in August when he heads to Whistling Straits in Wisconsin for the PGA Championship. That unfinished business is making the cut at the tournament and making a nice check. For the second straight year, Kok played his way into the tournament field with a top-20 finish the Professional National Championship at The Cricket Club in Philadelphia. He missed the cut last year but provided a television highlight with a spectacular eagle putt at Valhalla in Louisville. Kok admitted he wasn’t playing his best ahead of the 2014 PGA Championship but he just missed making the cut. This year, Four South African professionals and a beautiful lady. ( Louis he’s heading to Whistling Oosthuizen, Brenden Grace, Ernie Els, Johan Kok and, Dawn Kok). Straits with a little more confidence even though nine-hole match in the month leadhe has played less golf than ever. ing up to it (PNC),” Kok said on a A new job will do that to you. In recent afternoon. “I got up to PhilaApril, Kok left his job as director of delphia and I played nine holes golf at Temple Hills Country Club for on Thursday and Friday, and 18 an opportunity of a lifetime – to work holes on Saturday to get ready.” with Kemper Sports to open the new The result? Kok shot consistent rounds Hideaway at Arrington development. of 72-71-71-70 to finish at 2-over-par “Kemper Sports will manage the 284 and a tie for 10th place, easily development and they recruited me qualifying for the PGA Championship. to head up the whole project,” Kok “Congratulations to Johan for earning a return trip to the PGA Championship,” Tennessee PGA executive director Jeff Abbot said. “To finish 10th out of 300 elite PGA professionals competing for the 48th PGA Professional National Championship is very special. The Philadelphia Cricket Club was a difficult test of golf. Johan’s tremendous length and power off the tee was complemented with a great short game. His 26 one- putts over 72 holes was most impressive.” Kok, who will rent a house and spend extra time at Whistling Straits in advance of the PGA Championship, won’t have the putter in his bag that he wielded so well at the PNC. Instead, it’s now in the hands Jeff Abbot, Executive Director of the of the 13-year-old caddie who Tennessee PGA has his ticket to this helped him at the Cricket Club. year’s PGA Championship 56
Johan Kok and good friend Louis Oosthuizen during the long drive competition at 2014 PGA Championship at Valhalla in Louisville. “They ask you what kind of caddie do you want – experienced, member, junior,” Kok explained. “I told them to give me a junior. He was about 6-feet tall. I thought he was about 17. Well, he was 13 and he putts left-handed like I do.” The caddie – Justin Dougherty – is the son of a Cricket Club member. He told Kok that he had been trying to find a Scotty Cameron Circle-T 009 putter for sale on Ebay. “I told him if we finished in the top 20, I would give him mine,” Kok said. That was quite a gesture. The Circle T model was given to Kok by Scotty Cameron and sells for between $3,000 and $5,000 on Ebay. “I always wanted one, and Scotty Cameron gave it to me last year,” Kok said. “It was a prize possession but I was happy to send it to Justin. I guess I need to get out front of that with Titleist.” Kok credited his caddie for helping him make it through. ‘The Cricket Club is one of the nicest facilities I have ever been to,” Kok said. “It’s a fantastic golf course. There were a lot of members pulling for me and Justin. It was a fun week and not very stressful. Last year was pretty stressful. “It means more to me this year to qualify because I haven’t been playing very much,” he added. “I had a positive attitude and somehow I made it through.” Now, it’s on to Whistling Straits. And then, it’s back to work to get Hideaway at Arrington up and running. That’s the life of a PGA of America professional. Southern Golf Central • Volume 16, Issue 4
By Mike May
golf history
Riviera Country Club: If you truly appreciate the creature comforts of home, that’s the feeling that golfers get when they play the Riviera Country Club (www.rivcc.com; 386-677-2464) in Ormond Beach, Florida. Originally opened as a nine-hole course in the 1930s, later expanded to 18 holes in 1954 and now listed on the Florida Historic Golf Trail, Riviera has established itself as a place where golf is celebrated and enjoyed every day of the year. As the club’s brochure states, the Riviera Country Club (500 Calle Grande; Ormond Beach) has a “relaxed, comfortable atmosphere” which “welcomes golfers from around the world to enjoy.” BTW: no tee times are required. This par 71-layout is not very long – less than 6,300 yards from the tips – but it has enough twists and turns to challenge all golfers. As recently as 2008-
2009, Riviera was named by Golf Digest as one of the “Best Places to Play.” It remains that way today. And, with all 18 greens having been replaced in 2014, Riviera is better now than it has ever been. The greens are perfect – true, consistent, firm, quick, and fair. There is a reason why Riviera is such a wonderful place to play golf – great leadership. “We have great owners in Eric and Charlotte Meyers. And, it trickles down from there to everybody on staff,” notes Mike Boss, the Director of Golf at Riviera. “We put the needs of our customers and mem-
58
bers first. It’s all about customer service. Our attention to detail is what makes the Riviera experience so special for golfers.” Riviera’s commitment to courteous customer service is sincere. It makes every player feel at home -- starting in the pro shop and finishing up in the clubhouse lounge. Riviera is known as ‘The Friendly Club’ for a reason. There is another element of Riviera which adds character to the course: the old oak trees that have Spanish moss
dripping from their branches like icicles. With a few ponds on the course that serve as a home for turtles, fish, birds, and a few errant tee shots, Riviera could have been named ‘Old Florida.’ The presence of large trees also provide plenty shade throughout the round. Riviera attracts a passionate group of golfers from the area. “Anybody who plays golf in the greater Daytona Beach area seems to come through this club,” says David Baliker who has played at Riviera since the 1980s. Riviera also has history and tradition on its side. Historically, Riviera hosts the nation’s longest running mini-tour event, The Riviera Open – ‘The Riv.’ Some of the notable winners of this annual 36-hole event, held each December, include former PGA Tour regulars Jim Dent, Morris Hatalsky, Barry Jaeckel, Ken Staton, and Slugger White, who is now a PGA Tour rules official. Also, former Canadian golfing great Moe Norman used to spend his winters practicing at Riviera. He, too, played in ‘The Riv.’ From a tradition perspective, Riviera has dedicated a portion of its clubhouse walls to its “Holes in One Club.” The details of each hole-in-one at the course since 1960 are listed. And, all prior winners of the men’s and women’s club championship are also on display. As for the course record, it’s held by Staton, who shot 57 on July 11, 2015. When you visit Riviera, it’s a onestop golf shopping experience. Come for breakfast (enjoy the Hole-In-One), warmup on the driving range, visit the pro shop for golf accessories, play 18 holes, and then have lunch (enjoy the Riviera Club Sandwich). It’s a perfect way to spend the day, especially if you want an outing that is golf’s version of experiencing the creature comforts of home. Just make sure that your tee shot from the 18th tee goes past ‘Sissy’s Ridge.’
Southern Golf Central • Volume 16, Issue 4
caribbean golf central
Playa Grande Beach
Luxury Defined in the Dominican Republic Áman announces the launch of Amanera, scheduled to debut in the Dominican Republic during the fourth quarter of 2015. On a clifftop overlooking the crescent-shaped Playa Grande beach, Amanera is surrounded by verdant jungle and framed by the island’s dramatic Cordillera Septentrional mountain range. The resort will become the first golf-integrated Áman, sited alongside the undulating fairways and challenging greens of the lauded Playa Grande Golf Course. The world-class Playa Grande Golf Course was originally designed by celebrated architect Robert Trent Jones, Sr. His son, Rees Jones, an acclaimed designer in his own right and known as the Open Doctor, for his role in sprucing up many recent U.S Open venues, has gloriously revived his father’s legacy
Dranatic Cliffs - Golf on the Ocean
60
with a full renovation of the course. With 10 holes playing directly on ocean cliffs, it stands as the course with the most holes on the ocean in the Western hemisphere. This 7,085-yard
course stretches along the coastline and the multiple bays formed by rugged cliffs make each hole – and its views – unique. The magnificent canvas of towering cliffs, panoramic mountainto-sea views and windswept plateaus next to the undulating coastline, will soon be joined by a new man Clubhouse. The Clubhouse will include a restaurant open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as the course’s ‘19th’ hole for post-golf refreshments. Other facilities will include a pro shop, fitness center, tennis courts and an Áman Spa. Vladislav Doronin, Chairman of the Board of Áman, said, “The launch of Amanera is a clear illustration of brand progression and represents a number of firsts for Áman; not only is this our first fully-integrated golf resort, but it is one that unusually presents ocean vistas from every hole. This, our first foray into the Dominican Republic, will provide our guests with access, the Áman way, to yet another unique location.” The Dominican Republic is an idyllic destination for golfers; its great climate and abundance of coastline are perfect for days out on the course. Forest Travel creates and customizes amazing golf getaways. For more information and reservations, please contact a Forest Travel Expert today at: www.ForestTravel.com,305.932.5560 or via emailatDestinations@ForestTravel.com.
View from a One-Bed Casita
Golf Course
Southern Golf Central • Volume 16, Issue 4
TrueBlueDesignsLLC.com • 407.326.6800
WHATEVER IT TAKES! Whatever your requirements are, we will work with you to select the best method suited for your project and budget. TrueBlue Designs offers a complete range of services that put your name, logo, or message on almost anything. We strive to meet each client's individual needs, deliver positive results, and add value to your business.
GOLF TORNAMENT SIGNAGE
Hole Sponsor
BANNERS & SIGNICADES
PROMOTIONAL PRODUCTS AND MUCH MORE. SIGNS MATTER
Signs are a chance to make a first impression with a new customer, a way to inform, identify and direct the public and a way to create a brand and image for your facility. TrueBlue Designs will help you implement a sign system of the highest quality and style. Don't ignore your signage. Embrace it!
georgia golf central An exceptional destination appealing to those who appreciate gracious service and heartfelt hospitality, Sea Island is the home of two of the top 10 resorts in the Continental U.S., as recognized in the Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards for three years in a row. With four Forbes Five-Star experiences -The Cloister at Sea Island, The Lodge at Sea Island Golf Club, The Spa at Sea Island, and the Georgian Room restaurant and an extensive array of engaging nature adventures and recreational experiences, Sea Island entices families, outdoor and activity enthusiasts, and those simply wanting to refresh and recharge. It is the only resort in the world to have received four Forbes Five-Star awards for seven consecutive years. Located on the southeastern coast of Georgia, Sea Island features five miles of private beach, a Beach Club, tennis and squash centers, Yacht Club, Shooting School, and Camp Cloister. Well known as a family 13 Seaside Course resort, Sea Island is steeped in golf tradition and is home to three championship golf courses, including Seaside and Plantation, home of the PGA Tour’s McGladrey Classic, as well as the nation’s finest Golf Performance Center. The GPC boasts three of America’s Top 50 teachers, more than any other teaching facility in the country. With covered hitting bays, oceanfront location, an extensive club fitting program, and top instructors, the Center teaches every aspect of the game to golfers of every skill level, from beginners to tour professionals. Sea Island guests may also enjoy nearby Broadfield, a Sea Island Sporting Club and Lodge, offering a variety of seasonal hunting, fishing, sporting and organic culinary opportunities. Renowned for its hospitality, Sea 62
Island has been creating life-long traditions for discerning travelers and offering real estate ownership opportunities since 1928. In 2014, The Inn at Sea Island was added to the resort’s lodging options. Located about a mile from Sea Island proper and minutes from the Sea Island Golf Club, The Inn offers casual, mid-priced accommodations, access to the resort’s golf courses and Golf Performance Center, as well as dining, spa, and recreational experiences (access to the Sea Island Beach Club and the Fitness Center carry an additional fee).
Outdoor pool & seating area - The Inn at Sea Island
Top Ten Special Rate It is thought that more PGA TOUR players live and train at Sea Island than in any other golf community in the United States, including Davis Love III, Matt Kuchar, Zach Johnson, Harris English and Brian Harman. For the rest of 2015, based on how well these five players perform on the TOUR, callers aware of this unadvertised special may ask for 15% off rates at The Inn if one of these pros finishes in the top 10 of a PGA TOUR event.
Practice Range - Sea Island Golf Perfornance Center
Southern Golf Central • Volume 16, Issue 4
August 28th - 30th
Swing for the Kids! Golf Tournament
✔ 100% of all donations help the children ✔ During the past two years, Christ’s Starfish Foundation, 501(c)(3), has provided over $60,000 of support to approximately 400 patient families of Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. ✔ This event will specifically benefit the ongoing work to help patient families in the Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta network during 2015. ✔ Your support in this event means local families will receive the support and assistance they need during their child’s illness.
Exclusive Weekend Day Package- $1,000 Weekend Package: $2,000 Getaway: $3,500
• Golf for Four (4) players + One Celebrity player on Saturday
• Continental Breakfast on Saturday morning • Snacks on the course on Saturday afternoon • Cook Out Lunch at the end of the Golf Tournament • Four (4) Goodie Bags + Tournament Prizes
• Includes
Day Package +
• Includes
Weekend Package +
• Celebrity Reception and Silent Auction Friday night for Eight (8) guests
• Four (4) rooms Friday and Saturday night at the luxurious Brasstown Valley Resort and Spa
• Dinner and Entertainment Friday night for table of Eight (8) guests
•
•
UPGRADE Four (4) Special Goodie Bags + Tournament Prizes
UPGRADE Four (4) Deluxe Goodie Bags + Tournament Prizes
We look forward to a weekend of great golf & raising money for the kids! For more information contact: Carldon Lahey at (904) 612-8522 www.christstarfish.org or Richard Riley at (404) 358-5743 www.richardriley8320@att.net
6321 Highway 76 Young Harris, GA 30582 800-201-3205 www.brasstownvalley.com To learn more about the charity visit
www.christstarfish.org
By Mike May
alabama golf central
Seeking a Golf Vacation? The Grand Hotel, which first opened in 1847 in Point Clear, Alabama, is everything as advertised. It’s an ideal destination for your family, your golf buddies, or for you and a significant other. Come for a weekend, a long weekend, or longer. While this property -- now owned by Marriott -- is one of the official hotels along Alabama’s Robert Trent Jones (RTJ) Golf Trail, which provides convenient access to the Lakewood Golf Club, it caters as much to the non-golfer as it does to the golfer. Situated on the banks of Mobile Bay, the Grand Hotel (www.marriottgrand.com) provides stunning views of the bay from your bedroom and from many locations on the grounds of this truly ‘grand’ hotel. The view of Mobile Bay will get your attention when you open the curtains in the morning! While golfers will escape to the
Lakewood Golf Club - Dogwood #1
Lakewood Golf Club to play either the Dogwood or Azalea courses, other hotel guests can unwind alongside one of five pools, have a relaxing soak in the outdoor hot tub, play tennis, go ride a bike, visit the horseshoe pit, play croquet, or tour the Bay on a kayak or jet skis. Or, you can pursue a massage or a workout in the fitness center. Also, enjoy afternoon tea, which is a ‘grand’ experience at this hotel. History buffs will relish the firing of the cannon every day at 4:00 pm. The cannon blast over Mobile Bay represents the hotel’s way of honoring the military personnel who have served in Mobile Bay battles, dating back to the 1700s. Prior to the cannon being ignited, there’s a short presentation where hotel guests hear about the local military history. FYI: the Grand Hotel served as a
Lakewood Golf Club - Azalea #15
64
Southern Golf Central • Volume 16, Issue 4
strategic execution at all times. “At Lakewood, we are all about the sunset, fox squirrels, and oak trees,” notes Niall Fraser, director of golf at Lakewood. “We have a sleepy little town with two great hospital during the Civil War and has golf courses.” a Confederate cemetery on site. While Lakewood The two golf courses at Lakewood may be in a “sleepy The Grand Hotel Main Pool – literally across the street from the little town,” the Grand Hotel -- deserve a few words quality of the two of praise. These layouts are well courses is no secret as there is a steady maintained, fun to play, and require stream of visiting golfers from the South. Fraser says that much of the credit for Lakewood being such great golf destination can be given to Mother Nature as both have good corridors to work from, there’s always a breeze, and the existence of so many oak trees adds character to each hole. Fraser adds that because the Azalea course can play shorter than the Dogwood, successful golfers need to be able to hit both a fade and a draw. There’s good news for golfBucky's Birdcage Lounge
ers who are returning to Lakewood after playing there years ago. “In recent years, we have widened the fairways and the greens are not as extreme on both courses,” adds Fraser. At the end of your day, eat dinner at the Sunset Pointe restaurant in nearby Fairhope. This restaurant offers mouthwatering seafood and a magnificent view of the sunset over Mobile Bay. As great as the sunset is, the quality of the food and service are even better, especially the crab meatballs and bread pudding. Then, head back to the Grand Hotel for a nightcap at Bucky’s Birdcage Lounge where you can end the day in the same way that it began, with stunning views of Mobile Bay.
MODULATOR V3 GOLF TECHNOLOGY SERVING A GOOD
Swing
Our exclusive Modulator V3 Golf lens encompasses all you need. The optical superiority and lightweight characteristics of - Clear precision optics, hydrophobic outside and anti-fog inside coatings keep your view moisture free. It also features a finely tuned brown lens that highlights subtleties on the course while lightening and darkening to adapt to your environment. The lens does it all for you, letting you keep your focus on the ball. Available in most styles. Featured: Bolt 11520
Southern Golf Central • Volume 16, Issue 4
65
By Karlon B
tennessee golf central
Grant Hill is a Superstar! This young man is a model of how the youth of America should be. Grant Hill (16) of Memphis, TN is not only an excellent golfer, but also a passionate volunteer for many causes in and around Memphis as well as a wonderful student. Grant volunteers as a peer coach for The First Tee of Memphis, supports our troops abroad by creating and
Blvd Christian Church delivering food
sending greeting cards, and volunteers
baskets to the elderly in need. Grant’s
with Manna Outreach of Mississippi
golfing accomplishments are too many
Grant Hill and Loren Roberts
to list so here are a few. Grant has won the Mid-Western States Junior Championship in Lima Ohio with a score of 68, MGA Junior Championship at Memphis and Chickasaw Country Clubs, and the USJGT Championship at Germantown C.C. Grant has also been selected as one of eighty one participants internationally to play in the Nature Valley First Tee Open at Pebble Beach this September 22-25. Grant is extremely smart and is a member of the National Honors Society at Harding Academy where he has a 4.8 GPA. At Harding Academy he is also a member of the senior band, the basketball team, golf team, and Harding Academy Knowledge Master Team. Grant’s goals in the future are to play collegiate golf and while doing so hold at least a 4.0 GPA throughout all of his years in college. With the foundation that Grant has built any goal is attainable. Grant is an all-around great young person and I am glad to say he is a student of The First Tee of Memphis. Grant, Loren Roberts, and Glen Hill Sr.
66
Southern Golf Central • Volume 16, Issue 4
DAYTONA BEACH GOLF CLUB • INDIGO LAKES GOLF CLUB • LPGA INTERNATIONAL • THE CLUB AT PELICAN BAY
The Daytona Beach area is home to some of Florida’s best golf courses, and the Homewood Suites By Hilton Daytona Beach has teamed up with some of our favorites for some exciting package deals starting at $99 per person per day. We can book packages for single players up to groups of 50. With an average yearly temperature of 72 degrees, and 300 days of sunshine Daytona Beach is a wonderful area to enjoy your golf vacation. Daytona Beach has been a great leisure destination for over 100 years welcoming over 8 million visitors annually. A true golfer’s heaven, the Daytona Beach area is home to some of the most highly recognizable golf courses in the Southeast, including:, LPGA International, Indigo Lakes, Pelican Bay, and Daytona Beach Golf Club. Daytona Beach offers 23 miles of beaches, world class deep sea, and fresh water fishing, Daytona Beach Kennel Club & Poker Room, as well as unique dining and shopping experiences. Our Homewood Suites by Hilton staff will handle all of your groups needs including tee times. We are an all-suite property featuring three different suite types to ensure more room to spread out. A full breakfast buffet is included every morning, and dinner Monday-Thursday. All of our partner golf courses are located within a quick 15 minute drive. Our expert golf specialist’s will help you choose the best golf courses and things to do while you’re visiting the area.
Jones Course & Clubhouse at LPGA International
386-258-2828 Patrick.Sullivan@Hilton.com
carolinas golf central
Spend Fall at Hilton Head Island
Palmetto Dunes
Hilton Head Golf Island (HHGI) – a collection of premier resorts and courses in one of the world’s greatest golf destinations – announces numerous golf group packages for the fall. Exclusive offers, exceptional values and awe-inspiring Lowcountry scenery are all available for groups through these golf packages. Two national publications recently recognized HHGI with prestigious honors. Golf Digest ranked HHGI in the top 10 in seven categories including “Best Courses” and “Best Weather,” and GOLF.com’s inaugural “Golfers’ Choice Awards” tabbed it a Top 10 Most Dreamed About U.S. Golf Destination. A sampling of packages offered at www.hiltonheadgolfisland.com: The Heritage Golf Collection “Fore” Golf Package – Golfers stay four nights in villa accommodations and select four rounds from Port Royal Golf & Racquet Club, Shipyard, Palmetto Hall Plantation and Oyster Reef with complimentary range balls, all starting at $155 per person/per night (based on quad occupancy). The package also includes a welcome tee gift, breakfast at the golf clubs, a Heritage Golf Collection VIP discount card, and all taxes and fees. Available Sept. 8 – Nov. 7, the package is not valid on previous purchases, and availability and pricing are subject to change. Palmetto Dunes “President’s Cup Group Golf Package” – Valid daily through Dec. 31 for groups of 12 or 68
more, guests enjoy four days/three nights accommodations and three rounds of golf on the resort’s championship courses: Robert Trent Jones Oceanfront, Arthur Hills and George Fazio. Starting at $138 per golfer/ per night, the promotion includes team shirts, an on-site group golf coordinator, breakfast prior to each
round, two hours of tennis or Pickleball court time at the Tennis Center and other discounts and inclusions. Subject to availability, some restrictions may apply. The offer is not valid on existing reservations and may not be combined with any other offer. The Sea Pines Resort “Pete Dye Signature Group Golf Package” – Starting at $225 per golfer/per night, this getaway features deluxe villa accommodations for three nights and three rounds of Pete Dye golf, including at the famed Harbour Town Golf Links, site of the PGA TOUR’s RBC Heritage Presented by Boeing. The offer also includes a complimentary gift card and the group organizer plays for free. Other restrictions may apply. “Coming off our successful summer golf promotions, the fall packages offer great opportunities for golf groups to experience Hilton Head Golf Island at incredible rates,” says Cary Corbitt, President of the Lowcountry Golf Course Owners Association and Vice President of Sports and Operations at Sea Pines Resort. “Pristine conditions, mild temperatures and exceptional incentives – the fall is an ideal time of year for golf in the Lowcountry.” For additional information about rates, restrictions and other package inclusions, or to receive a quote: www.hiltonheadgolfisland.com, 800.523.3373.
Harbour Town Golf Links
Southern Golf Central • Volume 16, Issue 4
By Mitch Sadowsky
MS SPSc TP11 USAW AIS FMS Director of Golf Fitness Lake Nona Country Club Owner, Mitch11 Strength and Performance
golf fitness
10 Minute Warm Up I usually like to tackle 3 or 4 questions a month for our monthly article but this month’s is a great question and one I get asked quite frequently. Many thanks to Chris Gisslen from Ft. Wayne, Indiana for asking this one. Now, let’s get right in to it!! “I only have 10 minutes before my tee time, what is the best way to prepare for my round?” Well, other than get to the course earlier? Ok, let’s hit it, because we only have 10 minutes!! First off, we’re using Charlie Bull as our demo. Charlie is one of the golfers I work with who is currently competing on the Mackenzie (Canadian PGA) Tour. Lacking facilities depending on the tour stop can be challenging to get in a good warm up so Charlie has had some practice with these! Jumping jacks. I know it sounds old
school, but hey, if it ain’t broke… Jumping jacks get your heart rate up and is a full body exercise and is basic enough for anyone to use! Do about 20-30 of these. World’s Greatest Stretch. Using a large lunge step forward, place your opposite on the ground next to you. Rotate your upper body so your hand is pointing to the sky. Stand up and repeat on the opposite side. Do a few reps of these each side, 5-6 should be a good start. Not only will you be opening your hips, but you’ll be working a flexion extension patterning throughout your body. Side swings. Holding either a 3 or 4 Iron, swing your right leg back forth 8-10 times. Repeat on the left side. Hip Rotation. Again, holding either a 3 or 4 Iron, use the club as a brace to rotate your hips back and forth, 8-10 times each side.
1
70
Hip rotation split squat. Get in to a lunge position, drop your knee to the ground while rotating the back hip internally. While you rotate, reach across and down. Repeat this 6-8 times each side. T-Spine rotation: From all 4’s, take your right hand behind your head and reach for your left knee, then open your right elbow to the sky. Repeat 8-10 times per side. Lastly, we’ll go through a modified Tom House swing speed sequence. Take your lightest club (using a driver shaft would be ideal) Swing right to left and left to right gradually building up speed. After a few swings at max speed, take about 7-8 “Happy Gilmore” swings using a shuffle to accelerate in to your golf swing. Swing 7-8 times per side then hit a few balls and putt. Next time, get there earlier and do a proper warm up!
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
Southern Golf Central • Volume 16, Issue 4
GOLF TALK FROM “INSIDE THE ROPES”
with HollY G & Rich B GOLF MARKETING SERVICES
Live Wednesdays 6:00-7:00pm am 740 or Online thegolfinsiders.com
Southern Golf Central • Volume 16, Issue 4
71
By Ken Pierce
golf fitness
Golf Fitness Is Not Measured By Your Waistline very positive affect on your longevity and your health in general. However, I am talking about being able to play golf at your best...even though you are calorically challenged. Instead of thinking that in order to play better golf, you will have to join a gym and workout like Rory McIlroy (without the soccer injury), think more of starting some kind of swing train-
Congratulations to Inbee Park on winning the Ricoh Women’s British Open & Kiradech Aphibarnrat on winning the Paul Lawrie Matchplay (Europe) in the same week earlier this month! These golfers are two great examples of, and make my point that, Golf Fitness Is Not Measured By Your Waistline. Golf Fitness is based on your performance on the golf course. It is based on your ability to perform golf shots consistently and repeatedly...not whether you have six pack abs. Someone reading this post might think that I am being insensitive to these two young golfers. Actually, my theory could not be more valid than for these two professional golfers. I wrote an eBook called “Golf Fitness - What Is It Really”. In it I ex-
pressed my opinion that overall fitness
ing program that you will enjoy (you
is good for everyone, but that some
can find help on the GolfGym website).
of us are not interested in sit ups and
Start....then be consistent....it will be-
squats in order to look more fit (al-
come a habit....and you will see the ben-
though squats are really important
efits in your play and your score. That
in keeping the lower body strong and
is a very good place to start. Thanks for
stable). Their interest is in being “golf
reading!
fit”. Golf Fit is the ability to swing the golf club with stability, flexibility and consistency. That is developed from golf specific exercises and stretches. If a golfer wants to do more of a total body workout....that’s great! We offer many workouts on our website. We even broke them down to just 3
For those of you who really don’t like to exercise, please check out another blog called “You Don’t Have To Give Up Beer” http://GolfGym.com/Blog Ken Pierce is the Creator & President of GolfGym.com and the inventor of the GolfGym PowerSwing Trainer and the GolfGym PowerSWINGPlus Resistance Training Products. Website: http://GolfGym.com Facebook: www.Facebook.com/GolfGym Twitter: www.Twitter.com/GolfGymFitness
minutes to make is easier and simple. Please don’t misunderstand my position here. I workout regularly and believe that overall fitness, keeping your weight under control, and eating more healthy foods will have a
72
Southern Golf Central • Volume 16, Issue 4
Operation Renewed Hope
Celebrity Golf Classic October 22nd - 23rd & 24th, 2015 A HAND UP RATHER THAN A HAND OUT Fees:
Event Sponsors
$625 Individual $3000 Bring Your Own Foursome Please make checks payable to Operations Renewed Hope Mail to: 25 Antilles Cove Miramar Beach, FL 32550
Golfers Will Receive: • 2 Rounds of golf + cart
• Player appreciation package • Food and refreshments during play • Awards ceremony cookout at
w
The Cel eb Of s tie ri
• Use of putting green & driving range
AF e
• Breakfast each day before play
Kevin Sorbo
Patrick Warburton Bill Mazeroski
competition of tournament
Phil Niekro
• Souvenir photo with celebrity
Jim McMahon
• Chance to win valueable prizes
For more information Visit www.OperationRenewedHopeFoundation.org or
ORHF is a 501-c3 Co.
call Charlie Haje 850-269-7213 for Teams and Sponsorship
The Donut Hole EST. 1978
GOLF AT ITS PUREST Located in Central Florida where the vast openness of the landscape is only broken by the undulating fairways, towering sand dunes and glistening lakes of two acclaimed golf courses and one extraordinary resort. A resort offering the finest amenities including sporting clays, guided bass fishing, fine dining and spa. This is golf as it should be experienced. This is Streamsong®.
SUMMER STAY AND PLAY 18 FROM $
139*
plus tax, per person per night based on double occupancy.
Available May 26-Sept. 9, 2015.
Package Includes: • One night’s accommodation in a deluxe guestroom at the Lodge or the Clubhouse • 18 holes of walking golf
100 Greatest Golf Courses – Golf Digest 2015 Best Public Golf Course in Florida, Streamsong® Red #1, Streamsong® Blue #3 – Golf Digest 2015 We are pleased to announce Streamsong® Black. 18-holes designed by Gil Hanse debuting autumn 2017.
1000 Streamsong Drive • Streamsong • FL 33834 • 863.428.1000 • streamsongresort.com * Offer is subject to tax, resort fee, availability, and with advance reservation at 863.428.1000 or online. There is a required forecaddie and added forecaddie fees for golfers with carts. Offer not valid in conjunction with other offers. Some blackout dates may apply. Cancellation Policy: All reservations must be cancelled Forty-Eight (48) hours prior to arrival date to avoid a penalty. Cancellation of any reservation inside Forty-Eight (48) hours prior to arrival will be charged the full value of the entire reservation, including all applicable taxes.